Biogeography/ Ecosystems. Differentiated KS3 lesson, how can a salmon become a tree? Nutrient Cycle

Lesson Aim:
To gain a clear understanding as to how nutrients are recycled within an ecosystem, through examination of the question 'how can a salmon become a tree?'

Lesson Objectives:
1. To determine what the nutrient cycle is
2. To explain what decomposers and detritivores are
3. To speak with confidence about the role of salmon in the nutrient cycle of an Alaskan forest

Resources included:
PowerPoint presentation including hyperlinks to animated clips
A4 nutrient cycle sheet (back to back with salmon life cycle diagram- to be laminated for future use)
G&T/ More able additional reading material- how humans can influence the nutrient cycle
Lower ability picture prompts- will also need scissors and glue if these are used (six sets provided)

Lesson 2 of 10 from my new scheme of work on Biogeography (Ecosystems).
Also works as a stand alone lesson on the nutrient cycle.
Fully differentiated with resources and additional research tasks for lower and higher ability pupils.

This lesson is from a scheme of work that I have written for my Year 8 groups, but it could easily be adapted for Year 7, 9 or even KS4.

Three progress checks have been incorporated into this lesson.