Ecological Chains

In this activity (Activity 7.1 in Book 5) you will investigate the ecology of a temperate woodland that is dominated by oak trees, and will meet a variety of key ecological ideas and techniques. You will examine the links between the different organisms that form food chains and more complex food webs in this ecosystem, and will see how these links can be viewed in terms of the flow of energy through the ecosystem.

Section 1 Introduction to an oak woodland (study time 30 mins)
Section 2 A sparrowhawk's eye view (30 mins)
Section 3 How much food to raise a brood? (1 hour)
Section 4 Energy flow (1 hour)
Section 5 Food webs (30 mins)
Section 6 Getting the timing right (30 mins)

You are advised to study the material in the order presented and as directed in Activity 7.1. Many ideas in later sections are based on concepts you will have met in earlier sections.

Estimated study time: 4 hours in total