Inquiries in Science® Environmental Science Series - Help your students understand hard-to-grasp science concepts. Using a learning cycle of Engage, Explore, Explain, Extend, and Evaluate, each kit features lab activities designed to actively engage students in learning essential science concepts through guided inquiry. Topics addressed by the kits were organized and selected based on data from numerous sources, including the National Research Council's National Science Education Standards, AAAS's Project 2061 Science Benchmarks, NAEP's Science Framework, and state science education standards from across the US.

The Carrying Capacity Kit includes: Lab supplies plus a teacher’s manual with instructions and grading rubric Background information Reproducible student sheets Common student misconceptions Student questions Extension activities Suggestions for differentiated instruction Suggestions for community action

• Use a simulation to explore growth of a bird population over several generations
• Generate J- and S-shaped population curves
• Design and modify computer population models

Grades 9–12. Students explore and build several mathematical and computer models of population growth. The activity begins with students using a hands-on model to investigate the population growth of a bird species and translate it into a computer model. They generate and compare J- and S-shaped population curves, then modify and improve their computer models to better reflect a real population.

Part of the Inquiries in Science™ series. Materials are sufficient for 30 students working in groups.