Using manipulatives found in our homes, we will simulate two common field science experiments: Lincoln’s Index for measuring abundance and Simpson’s Index for measuring biodiversity. Participants in this 1.5 hr. workshop will gather evidence and make calculations that can be used to describe the health of and changes in an ecosystem. Each activity will be followed with the creation of a student-designed experiment that can be performed at home to reinforce the technique and assess the students’ understanding of how biodiversity and abundance estimates can be applied.
Although the examples in this workshop will be based in math and science, this 1.5-hour workshop is open to teachers of all grade levels and subject areas.