III.A.2 Part Two-Analyzing the Data
Instructions for the teacher:
- After the class has collected data (for as many days as you wish), use the table below
to compile all the information. Copy the table on the chalkboard or overhead projector.
Have a team spokesperson report their data. (You will need to enlarge the spaces for the
data.)
| Team # |
Mushroom |
Jar # Observed |
# of days observed |
Changes in the mushroom |
Changes in the sand? |
How many insects appeared? (total) |
How many different kinds of insects appeared? |
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- After the data have been compiled on the table, encourage your class to answer the
following questions:
- If you didn't see any insects on your mushroom when it was collected and some appeared,
where do you think the insects came from?
- If you did see insects on your mushroom when it you collected it, what kind of insects
were they? How many did you see? Were the insects you saw at the end of the observation a
different kind than the insects you saw in the beginning?
- What do you think would happen to the mushroom if you kept it in the jar for a month or
even two months?
- What was the total number of mushrooms observed by your class?
- What was the total number of different kinds of insects observed in your mushroom
containers?
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Results
After this activity, students should:
- Understand that associations exist between mushrooms and insects and be able to give
examples.
- Understand the role of insects as decomposers.
- Understand the concept of a food web.
- Understand the need for a classification system.
- Be able to work cooperatively and share observations.
- Be able to observe carefully and record data.
Further Questions and Activities for Motivated Students
Keep a sketchbook and draw how your mushroom changes. Use a magnifying glass to
carefully examine the insects that emerge and sketch them, too.
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