Graphic Organizer Assignment

https://
scied.ucar.edu/
carbon-cycle

Background: In this unit we have already learned how plants, alga, and even some bacteria can form
carbon molecules like glucose through photosynthesis. We also learned about these carbon molecules can
be broken down for usable energy via cellular respiration. In the lesson on metabolism, we learned that
matter converted to energy when organisms consume other organisms, the mass is conserved in the
universe. This means that the amount of carbon in the universe stays relative the same. If almost
everything contains and consumes carbon, how do we never run out of it? As you will see, carbon is
recycled throughout the environment in a process called the Carbon Cycle. In this assignment, you will
work in a group to investigate and outline how carbon moves through living and nonliving systems while
incorporating your previous knowledge of photosynthesis and cellular respiration.

Creating the Graphic Organizer: This assignment will be accomplished collaboratively via small
groups (3-4). As you read through and view the resources below, take notes on how carbon is moved
throughout the Earth between living things, water, land, and air (spheres) and relate these spheres to the
processes that drive them. Hint: we have already learned about 2 processes (cellular respiration and
photosynthesis). Use the resources found at the end of this document for your research. In your
groups, create a concept map using ​Popplet​ to show the processes that move carbon between the
different spheres of Earth. Each student will use their own Popplet account and collaborate on a shared
concept map.

Content requirements for the concept map are:

1) Identify the 4 spheres from the resources found below
2) Create 1 bubble (popple) for each one of the 4 spheres of Earth
 Each popple should include a one sentence definition using our own words (no copy and paste
answers)
 Choose 1 image that represents each sphere (4 total)
 See example below
3) At least four processes per sphere which move carbon between that sphere and any other. This does not mean that
there will be four different processes between each and every sphere, you can achieve this layout with only 8
processes (see image below for an example). To make sure you are fulfilling this requirement, look at each of your
four spheres and make sure there are at least four connectors branching out from each.

 Photosynthesis and cellular respiration must be two of your processes

 Each process should have a brief description that specifies the direction of movement of carbon from one
sphere to another
 Each process must connect two spheres to indicate that carbon moves between them. Descriptions will
specify the direction of movement and briefly describe the process.
 Additional Requirements:

1. Organized and visually appealing Popplet.

a. Popples are arranged to avoid overlapping lines
b. Information is presented neatly and concisely
c. Spelling and grammar are correct
2. Equal contribution of group members
a. Research is evenly and fairly distributed between group members
b. Popples show name tags and are evenly distributed between group members
3. Respectful collaboration between group members
a. Active listening and encouraging others to share ideas
b. Clear communication

Turn it in:

1. Click on “share” in the top right corner, then click “make popplet public.”
2. Click on the chain icon and copy the link.
3. Submit the link on the class website

Text Sources:

Earths Spheres: You need 4 in your final organizer

www.nationalgeographic.org/article/earths-systems/

http://www.cotf.edu/essc2/intro/spheres.html

The processes : you need 8 in your final organizer

https://scied.ucar.edu/carbon-cycle
https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/Features/CarbonCycle
https://www.sciencelearn.org.nz/resources/1569-carbon-cycle

Video Sources:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aLuSi_6Ol8M&

Sample Concept Map: