6th Grade Science: Diversity of Life

This document shares a sample of some of the resources included in this collection. This
collection was created to support teachers and students as they prepare and teach about
diversity of life For more resources, visit the 6th grade science collection for Diversity of Life.

Lessons

The Platte Basin reveals a secret, hidden life of the diverse animals and plants that inhabit the
wetlands, grasslands, and woodlands of the secluded Platte River Prairies in central Nebraska.
This video (3min.) is shared by PBS Learning Media. Also shared by PBS: This video (4 min.)
explores how scientists measure biodiversity and why rainforests are important examples of it.
Also included are discussion questions, a background essay, and the opportunity for students to
actively participate in a problem-solving scenario based on an ongoing research project of an
Academy scientist.  This video (4 min.) can be used to stimulate thinking about how evolution
by natural selection shapes biodiversity. Wildlife photographer Joel Sartore looks at two
endangered species in New Zealand, and examines why behavioral adaptations no longer
protect them, in this video from RARE—Creatures of the Photo Ark. Included find discussion
questions, and a student handout. 

Interactives & Labs

This site shares videos, interactives and other student-friendly educational information about
cell  anatomy, communication and more. Shared by the Genetic science learning center at the
University of Utah. They have numerous lessons to show students how cells grow and
differentiate, DNA structure, lab activities and more. Specific lessons and animations about
digestion and metabolism can be found here. There are also lesson plans and “print and go”
handouts for students.

Students determine which biome would be best for planting specific plants through this online
"mission." Students are able to search details about the plants on the same NASA site.
Students get clues about the foods different animals eat, then feed them in this online
matching game.  Shared by Harcourt. Requires flash.