7

Environmental Science
Quarter 1 – Module 3:
Biogeochemical Cycles
Environmental Science – Grade 7
Alternative Delivery Mode
First Edition, 2020

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The publisher and authors do not represent nor claim ownership over them.

Published by the Department of Education Region III – Mabalacat City

Schools Division Superintendent: Engr. Edgard C. Domingo, PhD CESO V
Curriculum Implementation Division Chief: Elizabeth O. Latorilla, PhD

Development Team of the Module

Writer: Melissa G. Castro

Editor: Cristina L. Dizon, PhD
Reviewer: Edquel M. Reyes, Ala M. Elagio
Madilyn C. Sangki, Angelene R. Cruz
Illustrator: Marlon S. Garcia and Archie A. Duran
Layout Artist: Melissa G. Castro
Management Team: Engr. Edgard C. Domingo, PhD, CESO V
Leandro C. Canlas, PhD, CESE
Elizabeth O. Latorilla, PhD
Sonny N. De Guzman, EdD
Cristina L. Dizon, PhD
Elizabeth C. Miguel, EdD

Department of Education – Region III Division of Mabalacat City

Office Address: P. Burgos St., Poblacion, Mabalacat City, Pampanga

Telefax: (045) 331-8143
E-mail Address: mabalacat city@deped.gov.ph
 7
Environmental Science
Quarter 1 Module 3:
Biogeochemical Cycle

This instructional material was collaboratively developed by the writer and graphic
designers, reviewed and edited by the Division of Mabalacat City Quality Assurance Team.

We encourage teachers and other education stakeholders to email their feedback,

comments, and recommendations to the Department of Education Division of Mabalacat
City at mabalacat city@deped.gov.ph
Introductory Message

Welcome to the Environmental Science- Grade 7 Alternative Delivery Mode (ADM) my dear facilitator!

This module was designed and developed in order for the learners to be technologically,
environmentally, and scientifically literate. The material can be the guide of the teacher or facilitator to
meet the standards set by the Department of Education in the K to 12 Curriculum while they are
experiencing challenges in schooling.

This self-learning kit will engage the learners to master the most essential competencies (MELC’s)
through the variety of learning activities they will independently perform. Also, it will be of great help for
them to attain the 21st century skills and be globally competitive.

In addition to the material in the main text, you will also see this box in the body of the module:

Notes to the Teacher

This contains helpful tips or strategies that will
help you in guiding the learners.

As a facilitator, it is significant to orient the learners on how to use this module in order to monitor their
progress in the different tasks they need to perform. Timeline in accomplishing the activities is also vital
for the learners to master the learning competencies. You are expected to encourage the learners to
perform their duties and responsibilities at their best.

Welcome to the Environmental Science Alternative Delivery Mode (ADM) my dear learner!

This module will serve as your guide in mastering the most essential learning competencies and be
technologically, environmentally, and scientifically literate. The activities prepared will give you
opportunity for independent practice and learning. Furthermore, you will enjoy the fun in performing the
tasks included in this self-learning kit.

Relax and enjoy another dimension of learning.

This module has the following parts and corresponding icons:

What I Need to Know This will give you an idea of the skills or competencies
you are expected to learn in the module.
What I Know This part includes an activity that aims to check what
you already know about the lesson to take. If you get
all the answers correct (100%), you may decide to skip
this module.

What’s In This is a brief drill or review to help you link the current
lesson with the previous one.
What’s New In this portion, the new lesson will be introduced to you
in various ways such as a story, a song, a poem, a
problem opener, an activity or a situation.

2
 What is It This section provides a brief discussion of the lesson.
This aims to help you discover and understand new
concepts and skills.

What’s More This comprises activities for independent practice to

solidify your understanding and skills of the topic. You
may check the answers to the exercises using the
Answer Key at the end of the module.

What I Have Learned This includes questions or blank sentence/paragraph to

be filled in to process what you learned from the lesson.
What I Can Do This section provides an activity which will help you
transfer your new knowledge or skill into real life
situations or concerns.

Assessment This is a task which aims to evaluate your level of

mastery in achieving the learning competency.
Additional Activities In this portion, another activity will be given to you to
enrich your knowledge or skill of the lesson learned.
This also tends retention of learned concepts.
Answer Key This contains answers to all activities in the module.

At the end of this module you will also find:

References This is a list of all sources used in developing this

module.
The following are some reminders in using this module:

1. Use the module with care. Do not put unnecessary mark/s on any part of the module. Use a
separate sheet of paper in answering the exercises.
2. Don’t forget to answer What I Know before moving on to the other activities included in the
module.
3. Read the instruction carefully before doing each task.
4. Observe honesty and integrity in doing the tasks and checking your answers.
5. Finish the task at hand before proceeding to the next.
6. Return this module to your teacher/facilitator once you are through with it.
If you encounter any difficulty in answering the tasks in this module, do not hesitate to consult your
teacher or facilitator. Always bear in mind that you are not alone.

We hope that through this material, you will experience meaningful learning and gain deep
understanding of the relevant competencies. You can do it!

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 What I Need to Know

Our environment has a lot of materials that can sustain life. Among the materials
that are most essential are, Water, Air, and nutrients like Nitrogen. Some materials are
naturally recycled. These materials move through the biotic and abiotic parts of our planet
through the biogeochemical cycles.

In this module, you will be able to understand how nature replenish some of the much-
needed materials. Diagrams will be used to show how materials cycle in the environment.
Essential elements of living matter are circulated and how are they transformed to be used by
organisms.

In this module, it includes:

● Lesson 3 – Biogeochemical Cycles

After going through this module, you are expected to:

1. Describe the processes involved in water cycle, oxygen cycle, carbon cycle, and
nitrogen cycle.
2. Analyze and explain the water cycle diagram, oxygen cycle diagram, carbon cycle
diagram, and nitrogen cycle diagram.
3. Apply and demonstrate knowledge and understanding through simple activities
involving water cycle.
4. Describe the processes involved in water cycle, oxygen cycle, carbon cycle, and
nitrogen cycle.
5. Relate the oxygen cycle processes with carbon cycle processes.
6. Illustrate the oxygen and carbon cycle in one (1) diagram.
7. Understand the events and processes that cause nitrogen to change form and move
through the nitrogen cycle.
8. Analyze and interconnect the material cycling processes.
9. Appreciate the importance of the material cycles in the ecosystem.

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 What I Know

Part I. Using the given space below, list the organisms that can give us oxygen and carbon
dioxide.

Oxygen Carbon Dioxide

Part II. Read each sentence carefully. Encircle the correct answer.

1. Rain, snow, hail, or sleet are part of which process in the water cycle?
A. Evaporation C. Precipitation
B. Condensation D. Sublimation

2. The evaporation of water from the stomata of plant leaves is called

_____________________.
A. Transpiration C. Evapo-transpiration
B. Sublimation D. Infiltration

3. The process of changing ice into water vapor is called ______________.

A. Evaporation C. Sublimation
B. Transpiration D. Condensation

4. Water vapor rises in the atmosphere with warm air, then cools. Cooled water vapor in
the air becomes liquid again through the process of ___________________.
A. Precipitation C. Percolation
B. Infiltration D. Condensation

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5. The term water cycle is also known as ___________________.
A. Hydrologic Cycle C. Carbon-Oxygen Cycle
B. Nitrogen Cycle D. Hydroxide Cycle

6. What is the most abundant gas in the atmosphere?

A. Carbon Dioxide C. Oxygen
B. Hydrogen D. Nitrogen

7. This process involves the conversion of ammonia to nitrite and then to nitrate.
A. Nitrogen Fixation C. Ammonification
B. Nitrification D. Denitrification

8. The following processes are responsible for recycling oxygen and carbon in the
atmosphere, except:
A. Anammox C. Decomposition
B. Respiration D. Combustion

9. Which process under the nitrogen cycle returns nitrogen gas in the atmosphere?
A. Ammonification C. Nitrogen Fixation
B. Denitrification D. Assimilation

10. This involves the process were plants absorbs bioavailable nitrogen from the soil
through their roots.
A. Lightning C. Transpiration
B. Assimilation D. Ammonification

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 Lesson
Biogeochemical Cycles
3
In Earth Science and Ecology, the Biogeochemical Cycles or materials turnover are means to
circulate the essential materials such as nutrients in the biosphere. There is a continuous cycle of
materials in the ecosystem from which the organisms are dependent on. These materials move through
the biotic and abiotic part of the ecosystem. The most common Biogeochemical cycles are: Water
Cycle, Oxygen and Carbon Cycle and Nitrogen Cycle. The term “biogeochemical” refers to the
biological, geological and chemical aspects of each cycle. These cycles are classified as gaseous or
sedimentary. The Gaseous Cycles involves the air and oceans as reservoirs while the Sedimentary
Cycles’ reservoirs are the Earth’s crust. Water Cycle, Oxygen and Carbon Cycle and Nitrogen Cycle
are classified as gaseous Biogeochemical Cycles.

What’s In

Part I. Identify the process of change in the state of matter through the pictures below.

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Part II. Categorize the given samples below if they belong under biotic factor or abiotic factor.
Write your answer on the space provided.

Water Oxygen Animals Plants Lightning

Carbon Nitrogen Soil Sunlight Heat

Biotic Factor Abiotic Factor

What’s New

Water Cycle

THE FUTURE OF WATER

1
Local water problems, such as the contamination and over usage of our water supply,
pose as the main threats to every nation’s water security. There is yet another looming threat to
our water resources that we should be concerned about—global climate change.
2
Scientists think that earth’s freshwater sources are not only highly sensitive to changes
in weather but to climate as well. (Weather refers to the condition of the atmosphere on a certain
day, while climate is the average weather condition of a certain region over a certain period of
time.) The subtle yet important changes in global climate throughout the years will have an
enormous effect on the quality and the availability of our water supply.
3
As earth’s climate changes, scientists think that there will be significant changes in the
quantity and the quality of precipitation and runoff, and even evaporation.
4
In certain climate model simulations of the impact of global warming on our watersheds,
changes in the earth’s climate are seen to affect the timing, the amount, and even the quality of
the stream flows and runoffs that our water supplies depend on. They show unpredictable weather
factors that can bring about unexpected floods and droughts in different parts of the world. They
also show rising sea levels, which may cause flooding in coastal towns and saltwater
intrusion into their aquifers. This saltwater intrusion is made possible due to extreme
events such as hurricanes and storm surges caused by climate change, though human
activity such as groundwater extraction in some coastal areas may add to the problem.

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 5
All these potential effects translate to another changes, like migration of aquatic
life. Decreased productivity of fisheries, and even loss of the recreational use of our lakes
and rivers.
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The future of our water supply will, in some degree, depend on how much we can
reduce the greenhouse gas emission that cause climate change.

Identify what is described by the following. You can find the word from the given
paragraph.

____________________1. Any moisture that falls from the air to the ground.
(Paragraph 3)

____________________2. A large accumulation of underground water in permeable

rock, soil, or sand. (Paragraph 4)

____________________3. The change of liquid water on Earth’s surface into water

vapor. (Paragraph 3)

____________________4. Part of the water cycle that flows over land as surface
water instead of being absorbed into groundwater or
evaporating. (Paragraph 4)

____________________5. Water that has soaked into the soil. (Paragraph 4)

***You will encounter these words as you progress in your study of the water cycle.

Oxygen and Carbon Cycle

Identify what gas is provided by each group of organisms:

It can Provide: It can Provide:

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 Nitrogen Cycle

The most abundant gas in the atmosphere is Nitrogen. It comprises 78% compared to
other gases. But unlike oxygen and carbon, nitrogen needs fixing for it to be used by
organisms. It also comes in different forms.

Nitrogen undergoes many different transformations in the ecosystem, changing from

one form to another as organisms use it for growth and, in some cases, energy. The major
transformations of nitrogen are nitrogen fixation, nitrification, denitrification, anammox,
and ammonification. (Bernhard, 2010)

Try the activity below. These are the process involved for nitrogen to change form and
move through the nitrogen cycle. Match column A with column B. Write the letter of your
answer on the space provided in column A.
Column A Column B
____ 1. The process that converts ammonia to A. Ammonification
nitrite and then to nitrate. B. Anammox
____ 2. The type of ammonia oxidation C. Assimilation
occurring under anoxic conditions. D. Denitrification
____ 3.
The process that converts nitrate to E. Nitrification
____ 4. nitrogen gas. F. Nitrogen Fixation
The process of converting nitrogen G. Precipitation
gas into biologically available nitrogen.
____ 5. The process that involves the action of
decomposers to convert inorganic
nitrogen to ammonia.
____ 6.
The process where plants and other
organisms absorbs and use nitrogen for
survival.

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 What Is It

Water Cycle

CONDENSA
TION

Source: http://wbo6science.weebly.com/water-
cycle.html
Water cycle is also called hydrologic cycle. This cycle involves the continuous
circulation of water in the Earth-atmosphere system. The total amount of water within the cycle
remains the same. However, the distribution among the various processes is continually
changing (LeDrew, 2007).

The energy from the sun fuels the water cycle. Heat energy from the sun causes liquid
water on the earth’s surface to change into water vapor in the process called evaporation. This
transfer of water from liquid state into gaseous state occurs when some molecules in a water
mass have attained enough kinetic energy to eject themselves from the surface of the water.
The main source of water vapor is the ocean. However, evaporation may also occur in soil,
animals, and plants. Evaporation from snow and ice is also possible through the process called
sublimation. This process changes water in solid form into vapor state. Similarly, through the
process called transpiration, water evaporates from the leaves of the plants through the plant’s
pores or stomata. The movement of water from all oceans, land, snow, ice, vegetation, and
other surfaces, through the combined process of evaporation and transpiration, is lumped
together in a process called evapotranspiration, or total evaporation (Integrate, 2017).

Water vapor rises to the atmosphere with warm air. As the air rises, it cools. Cool air
cannot hold as much water vapor as warm air. The cooled water vapor in the air becomes
liquid again in a process called condensation. As the rising water vapor starts to condense, it
forms tiny droplets of water in the sky, which we see as clouds or fog (Fema, 2020).

Water droplets gather in the clouds. When the water droplets get bigger and heavier,
and the air currents can no longer keep it aloft, it falls to the ground as precipitation.
Precipitation is therefore, the movement of water from the atmosphere to the land surface or
oceans. It can occur in different forms such as: rain, hail, snow, or sleet, depending on the
climate where the clouds may have been travelling. In tropical climates, such as in the

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Philippines, short heavy showers are common, with most torrential rains being experienced
during the southwest monsoon season. Due to its warm air, it melts ice crystals into raindrops.
Hail, on the other hand is a crystalized, condensed water that is formed when the temperature
in rainclouds drops below zero. Once the ice becomes too big to be carried in the air, it falls
down as hailstones. This is usually followed by a thunderstorm, and is a normal weather
occurrence in the Philippines. In order for precipitation to come down as snow, the air that
would meet any water vapor on its way down would have to be at freezing temperature to
keep the water vapor frozen. Snow falling in the mountains or polar regions may remain frozen
for years. Gradually, layers accumulate and their pressure turns the bottom layer of snow into
ice, forming glaciers. Evaporation of snow and ice may then take place from the surface of a
glacier, in the process called sublimation (Jimenez, 2007).

Precipitation that falls to the Earth is distributed in four main ways: some is returned to
the atmosphere by evaporation, some may be intercepted by vegetation, then evaporates
through transpiration, some will percolate into the soil by infiltration, and the remainder may
flow directly as runoff into the sea.

When water falls back to the Earth as precipitation, it infiltrates the ground as
groundwater. In other words, groundwater is used to describe precipitation that has infiltrated
the soil beyond the surface and collected in empty spaces underground. Infiltration on the
other hand is the downward entry of water into the soil or rock surface. Groundwater passes
through gravel, sand, soil, and porous rock on its way back to rivers, lakes, and oceans, or to
longer-term storage deep underground. During precipitation, rain seeps into the soil. This
makes the soil saturated. When the soil has reached its saturation point, in a way that water
can no longer pass through it, it will flow into the Earth’s surface as runoff or surface water.
Runoff will eventually flow and travel toward the lowest point of the land where it eventually
empties into the seas. In other cases, some of the infiltrated precipitation may later percolate
into a below-ground aquifer. Percolation is the downward movement of water from the surface
of the earth dissolving salts and minerals through spaces between the soil and porous or
fractured rocks. Aquifers are bodies of rock and/or sediment that hold groundwater. These are
excellent sources of drinking water. Aquifers, however, may be depleted if water is being
removed faster than it is being replaced by the water percolating from above (Newsela, 2017).

Oxygen and Carbon Cycle

The Oxygen Cycle

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Observe the figure above. Unscramble the words inside the boxes and write your
answer on the space provided below. (In any order.)

1. _______________________
2. _______________________
3. _______________________

TREABHING COMDOSEPING

CIONMBUST SURNIT
G
Processes that Involves Oxygen

Unscramble the words under each picture. Find which best describe each word. Write
your answer on the space provided before each statement.

1. _______________- This is the physical process of inhaling oxygen from the

environment and exhale carbon dioxide back into the atmosphere.

2. _______________ - It is one of the most important processes in the oxygen cycle. The
dead organism decay into the ground and the organic matter along with the Carbon,
Oxygen, water and other components are returned back into the soil and air.

3. _______________ - Without oxygen you can’t have fire. When things burn, they use
up oxygen and replace it with carbon dioxide.

4. ________________ – This process also needs Oxygen for Oxidation process. In this
process, metals like iron or alloy when exposed in the moisture and oxygen for a long
period of time new compounds formed.

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The Carbon Cycle

Observe the figure below. Try to explain the processes involved in the Carbon Cycle.
Write your answer on the space provided.

Carbon Cycle Diagram

(BYJU's, n.d.)

_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_____________

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 PIRERISATON COPDOEMISITON
MOCUBINTOS

Processes Involved in Carbon Cycle

Refer to the pictures above. Unscramble the letters inside each box. Try to find out
which word best describe the statement below.

1. ___________________ - Every time you inhale, oxygen enters the body for the cells
to operate well and releases carbon dioxide as a body waste.

2. ___________________– When organisms die, they will decay slowly. In that

process, carbon will release into air or stored in the soil.

3. ___________________ - When plants, trees, or fossil fuels are burned, carbon is

released into the atmosphere.

When plants release oxygen in the atmosphere, animals and other organisms use this
for respiration. They inhale oxygen and use it for cellular respiration. On the other hand, the
product of cellular respiration is carbon dioxide which is then release in the atmosphere. In
turn, plants will use this for their food making process through the process called
photosynthesis. Other human activities such as auto and factory emission, combustion, and
the likes also produce carbon.

Nitrogen Cycle
Read the information below. These involves the processes it takes to convert nitrogen
gas to biologically available nitrogen to be used by organisms. After which, analyze the
illustrations and answer the given questions.

Transformations of Nitrogen
Although 78% of the atmospheric gas is made up of nitrogen gas, this gas exists in
form that is not usable by organisms. It needs fixing with the aid of specific microorganisms or
abiotically by lightning, certain industrial processes, and combustion of fossil fuels.

(Wikimedia Commons, 2020)

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A. Given the statement above and with the use of the pictures, what transformation process
in the nitrogen cycle is involved?

NNNTFEIARTIIOGOX

_______________ _______________

Another important step in the nitrogen cycle is the conversion of ammonia to nitrite
(NO2-) and then to nitrate (NO3-). This process is carried out by distinct type of microorganism
and involves two steps. The first process is done by microorganisms known as ammonia-
oxidizers. These microbes convert ammonia to nitrite. The second process is the oxidation of
nitrite (NO2-) and nitrate (NO3-). This step is completed with the help of nitrite- oxidizing
bacteria.

B. What process do you think is described above?

TIINRCITONIAF
___________________________________

Plants and animals incorporate nitrate and ammonia formed through nitrogen fixation
and nitrification. Plants absorb these through their roots and use it for photosynthesis. Animals
are then able to use nitrogen from the plant tissues when they feed on them (Fondriest, 2010).

(BYUJ'S The Learning App, n.d.)

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C. What process is described?

IMISSATNALIO
_______________________

Recently a new type of ammonia oxidation happening in environment without oxygen

was discovered. This is known as anerobic ammonia oxidation. It plays a big role in the
nitrogen cycle since this process is responsible for the production of nitrogen gas.
(Robert Sharp, 2020)

D. The process described above has another name. What do think is the other term for
anerobic ammonia oxidation?

NAOMMAX
___________________________________
The next process involves the conversion of nitrate to nitrogen gas. This stage
removes bioavailable nitrogen and return it to the atmosphere in the form of dinitrogen gas.
Specific microbes are responsible with this process which mostly takes place in environment
without oxygen.

(Bentrup, 2016)
E. Given the description and illustration above, what process in the nitrogen transformation is
this?

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 FEODARITITNNCII

___________________________________

When organisms excrete wastes or die, the nitrogen in their tissues is in the form of
organic nitrogen. Decomposers will act on these tissues and release inorganic nitrogen back
to the ecosystem as ammonia. This ammonia then becomes available to organisms such as
plants and microorganisms (Bernhard, 2010).

(Bio Ninja, n.d.)

F. What process is the nitrogen cycle is being described above?

NMOMOITFAICAIN
___________________________________

What’s More

Water Cycle
Test your memory and understanding of the concepts by completing the “Water Cycle”
crossword puzzle.

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Across
1. The process of total evaporation
3. The opposite of evaporation
8. The change in state of matter from solid to gas
9. Transfer of water from liquid state into gaseous state
10. Water's downward movement from the surface of the earth into a below-ground
aquifer

Down
2. Any moisture that falls from the air to the ground
4. Downward entry of water into the soil or rock surface
5. Accumulation of underground water
6. Movement of water from the surface of the land to the oceans.
7. Evaporation of water from plant leaves

Oxygen and Carbon Cycle

Draw and label the processes involved.

The Oxygen Cycle The Carbon Cycle

Think of the processes involved in Oxygen and Carbon Cycle. Try to relate them by
making a diagram connecting the two cycles.

The Oxygen and Carbon Cycle

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 Nitrogen Cycle

Given below is the diagram for nitrogen cycle. Analyze it and in your own words explain
the process. Use the arrows as guide. The major transformations of nitrogen which are
nitrogen fixation, nitrification, assimilation, denitrification, anammox, and
ammonification should be used in your explanation. Write your answer on the space provided
below. If the space is not enough, you may use a separate paper.

(Britannica Kids Students, 2011)

__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________

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 What I Have Learned

Do human activities affect the nitrogen cycle? Why or why not? You may refer to the
diagram for reference.

_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________

Water Cycle
Complete each statement to summarize the concept of water cycle. Choose your
answer from the word bank provided below.

Aquifers Hydrologic Cycle Runoff

Clouds Infiltration Sublimation
Condensation Percolation Sun
Evapotranspiration Precipitation Transpiration
Groundwater Rain Water vapor

The energy from the 1____________________ powers the water cycle. When the sun
warms the water in oceans and other bodies of water, evaporation takes place. Evaporation
is the process of changing water in liquid form into 2____________________. Following
evaporation is the process called 3____________________, where water vapor changes into
water in liquid form. Evaporation, however, is not limited to ejecting water molecules from the
oceans. Water from the plants may also evaporate through the process called
4
____________________. Additionally, water in solid form such as ice caps and glaciers may
not necessarily melt to be converted into water vapor during evaporation. This process of
evaporating glaciers is known as 5____________________. Lump together, evaporation from
all possible water sources is categorized as 6____________________.

Water vapor in the air cools as it rises forming tiny droplets in the sky which we see as
7
____________________. As water gathers in the clouds, it becomes heavier. Once the air
currents can no longer keep it aloft, 8____________________ takes place. This can come in
different forms. In the Philippines, 9____________________ is its common form. During
precipitation, water can land in different areas. Some may fall back to the seas; some may fall
on the ground where it seeps into the soil. Water from precipitation that is not absorbed by the
ground becomes surface water commonly known as 10. ____________________. This will
find its way back to the seas by traveling toward the lowest part of the land.

Water absorbed by the ground during precipitation moves downward dissolving salts
and minerals through spaces between the soil and porous rocks in the process called
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____________________. This is possible after the downward entry of water into the soil or
rock surface known as 12____________________. Precipitation that has infiltrated the soil
surface will be collected in empty spaces underground forming 13____________________.

21
Water from this area may naturally be filtered through 14____________________ by forcing it
to pass through small pores and between sediments. This is the reason why they are known
as good sources of drinking water. However, they may be depleted if water percolating from
above is being removed faster than it is being replenished.
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This is the water cycle. Also known as the ____________________.

Oxygen and Carbon Cycle

Complete each statement to complete the summary of oxygen and carbon cycle.
Choose your answer from the word bank provided below.

Carbon Dioxide Combustion Decomposition

Oxygen Respiration

The oxygen cycle and the carbon cycle are two of the biogeochemical cycles on Earth
that make life possible. They act separately but are dependent on each other because the
carbon cycle gives off 1____________________ for the oxygen cycle to use, and in turn, the
oxygen cycle emits 2 ____________________ (CO2) which goes back into the carbon cycle.
Plants play a major part by which the oxygen and carbon cycles are connected.
3
____________________, 4___________________ and 5____________________ are three
other ways that CO2 and/or oxygen is released back into the atmosphere.

Nitrogen Cycle
Complete each statement to summarize the nitrogen cycle. Choose your answer from
the word bank provided below.

Ammonification Denitrification Nitrogen Fixation

Ammonia Nitrate Nitrogen Gas
Anammox Nitrite
Assimilation Nitrification

The most abundant gas in the atmosphere is 1___________________. But this gas
needs fixing with the aid of specific microorganisms or abiotically by lightning, certain industrial
processes, and combustion of fossil fuels through the process of 2____________________.
The conversion of 3____________________ to 4 ____________________ (NO 2-)
and then to 5____________________ (NO3-) is a very important process in the nitrogen cycle.
This process known as 6____________________, is carried out by distinct type of
microorganisms and involves two steps.
Plants and animals use nitrate and ammonia formed through nitrogen fixation and
nitrification. Through the process of 7____________________ , plants absorb these through
their roots and use it for photosynthesis. Animals, on the other hand, can get biologically
available nitrogen when they eat.
Recently a new type of ammonia oxidation known as 8____________________,
happens in environment without oxygen was discovered. It is also known as anerobic
ammonia oxidation. It is responsible for the production of nitrogen gas.

22
 What I Can Do

The next process called as 9____________________ involves the conversion of

nitrate to nitrogen gas. This process removes bioavailable nitrogen and return it to the
atmosphere in the form of dinitrogen gas.
During the process of decomposition, decomposers act on decaying tissues and
release inorganic nitrogen back to the ecosystem as ammonia, which will be used by plants
and microorganisms. This is known as the process of 10__________________.

Fresh, clean and unpolluted water is precious. Over one billion people on Earth do not have
access to water due to unsanitary conditions and water pollution.

1. The future of water lies in your hand. Think of problems or situations (as many as you
can) where water is not conserved or protected. What are your possible solutions for
these?
2. In your own ways, how can you help in the conservation and protection of water and
water resources? (5-10 sentences)

You will be graded by the following:

Correctness (10) Novelty of Ideas (10) Feasibility of Ideas (10)

PROBLEM SOLUTION

Conservation and Protection of Water Resources

23
 Assessment

Part I. Identify the processes involved in the water cycle. In your own words, explain how the
water cycle works.

7.

Source: https://www.quia.com/files/quia/users/repasy_p/watercycle/watercyclelabel

Criteria: Correctness: 15 Originality: 10 Organization: 5

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Part II. Read each statement carefully. Choose the letter of your answer and write it on the
space provided.

______ 1. Ninety-seven percent of the earth’s water resources can be found in ______
A. Freshwater C. Glaciers
B. Salt water D. Groundwater

______ 2. Underground water in permeable rock, soil, or sand is called _________.

A. Aquifer C. Groundwater
B. Water table D. Watershed

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______ 3. This is the physical process of inhaling oxygen and exhaling carbon
dioxide.
A. Combustion C. Respiration
B. Decomposition D. Photosynthesis

______ 4. In this process, metals like iron or alloy when exposed in the moisture and
oxygen for a long period of time, new compound is formed.
A. Breathing C. Combustion
B. Rusting D. Respiration

______ 5. What process is involved, when plants, trees, or fossil fuels are burned,
carbon is released into the atmosphere?
A. Decomposition C. Photosynthesis
B. Combustion D. Breathing

______ 6. Which is comprising 78% by volume of the atmospheric gas?

A. Hydrogen C. Oxygen
B. Carbon D. Nitrogen

______ 7. This is the process of converting nitrogen gas into biologically available
nitrogen.
A. Anammox C. Assimilation
B. Ammonification D. Nitrogen Fixation

______ 8. This is the process of converting ammonia to nitrite and then to nitrate.
A. Denitrification C. Nitrification
B. Nitrogen Fixation D. Photosynthesis

______ 9. This process is also known as anerobic ammonia oxidation.

A. Anammox C. Assimilation
B. Ammonification D. Denitrification

______ 10. This involves the action of decomposers which returns nitrogen gas back
in the atmosphere.
A. Ammonification C. Respiration
B. Assimilation D. Synthesis

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 Additional Activities

Word Search. Find and encircle the words that are associated to the Biogeochemical Cycles.
Refer to the list on the right side of the puzzle.

(Word Search Maker, n.d.)

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Answer Key

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28
References
Alvarez, L. B. (2018, January 15). Urbanspace Aquaphonics. Retrieved July 16, 2020, from
https://urbanspaceaquaponics.com/2018/01/15/difference-between-nitrification-and-
denitrification/
Bentrup, G. (2016, December 09). flickr. Retrieved July 16, 2020, from USDA National
Agroforestry Center: https://www.flickr.com/photos/139938511@N02/30720905783
Bernhard, A. (2010). Nature Education. Retrieved July 07, 2020, from Knowledge Project:
https://www.nature.com/scitable/knowledge/library/the-nitrogen-cycle-processes-
players-and-human-15644632/
Bio Ninja. (n.d.). Retrieved July 17, 2020, from Bio Ninja:
https://ib.bioninja.com.au/options/option-c-ecology-and-conser/c6-nitrogen-and-
phosphorus/nitrogen-cycle.html
Britanica.com. (2020). Retrieved July 11, 2020, from Water Cycle:
https://www.britannica.com/science/water-cycle
Britannica Kids Students. (2011). Retrieved July 18, 2020, from Encyclopedia Britannica:
https://kids.britannica.com/students/assembly/view/190745
BYJU's. (n.d.). Retrieved July 14, 2020, from The Learning App:
https://byjus.com/biology/carbon-cycle/
BYUJ'S The Learning App. (n.d.). Retrieved July 18, 2020, from Nitrogen Cycle:
https://byjus.com/biology/nitrogen-cycle/
Fema. (2020). Retrieved July 11, 2020, from Guidelines for Estimation of Percolation Losses
for NFIP Studies.: https://www.fema.gov/media-library-data/20130726-1731-25045-
9495/dl_perc.pdf
Fondriest. (2010, August 02). Retrieved July 18, 2020, from Environmental Monitor:
https://www.fondriest.com/news/nitrogencycle.htm#:~:text=oxygen%20to%20occur.-
,Assimilation,plant%20proteins%20and%20nucleic%20acids.
Integrate. (2017). Retrieved July 11, 2020, from Hydrologic Cycle:
https://serc.carleton.edu/integrate/teaching_materials/water_science_society/student
_materials/749?fbclid=IwAR2BeeXXzuDeXV1JGhMFCUyBObm46cndQbUAkXKn_D
zbWASLmLntIpOY9-0
Jimenez, G. (2007). Can We Drink the Ocean? A Book About Water. Adarna House Inc.
LeDrew, B. (2007). Science Probe 8. Thompson Asia Pte Ltd.
National Geographic. (2020). Retrieved July 11, 2020, from Aquifers:
https://www.nationalgeographic.org/encyclopedia/aquifers/
Newsela. (2017). Retrieved July 11, 2020, from Matter and Energy: Evaporation and
Condensation.:
https://www.stcharles.k12.la.us/cms/lib/LA01906411/Centricity/Domain/1258/Evapora
tion%20and%20condensation%20Article.pdf
Quia.com. (n.d.). Retrieved July 11, 2020, from Adv Water Cycle Vocabulary Flashcards:
https://www.quia.com/files/quia/users/repasy_p/watercycle/watercyclelabel

29
Robert Sharp, W. K. (2020, July 01). Science Direct. Retrieved July 16, 2020, from Elsevier:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0048969720317964#bbb0120
Study.com. (2003). Retrieved July 11, 2020, from What is Runoff? - Definition & Effects:
https://study.com/academy/lesson/what-is-runoff-definition-effects-quiz.html
Wikimedia Commons. (2020, June 09). Retrieved July 15, 2020, from File:Plant Fixing
Nitrogen.png: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Plant_Fixing_Nitrogen.png
Word Search Maker. (n.d.). Retrieved July 21, 2020, from The Teacher's Corner:
https://worksheets.theteacherscorner.net/make-your-own/word-search/

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 Answer Sheet

What I Know
Part I.
Oxygen Carbon Dioxide

Part II.

1. 6.
2. 7.
3. 8.
4. 9.
5. 10.

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 What’s New
Water Cycle: The Future of Water
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Oxygen and Carbon Cycle

Nitrogen Cycle
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

What Is It

The Oxygen Cycle Processes That Involves Oxygen

1. 1.
2. 2.
3. 3.
4.
The Carbon Cycle

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Processes Involved in Nitrogen Cycle: Transformation of
Carbon Cycle Nitrogen
1. A. D.
2. B. E.
3. C. F.

What’s More
Water Cycle

Oxygen and Carbon Cycle

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 Nitrogen Cycle
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Do human activities affect the nitrogen cycle? Why or why not? You may refer to the
diagram for reference.
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What I Have Learned
Water Cycle
1. 6. 11.
2. 7. 12.
3. 8. 13.
4. 9. 14.
5. 10. 15.

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 Oxygen and Carbon Cycle Nitrogen Cycle

1. 1. 6.
2. 2. 7.
3. 3. 8.
4. 4. 9.
5. 5. 10.

What I Can Do
PROBLEM SOLUTION

Conservation and Protection of Water Resources

Assessment
Part I.
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Part II.
1. 6.
2. 7.
3. 8.
4. 9.
5. 10.

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Additional Activities
Word Search

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For inquiries or feedback, please write or call:

Department of Education - Bureau of Learning Resources (DepEd-BLR)

Ground Floor, Bonifacio Bldg., DepEd Complex

Meralco Avenue, Pasig City, Philippines 1600

Telefax: (632) 8634-1072; 8634-1054; 8631-4985

Email Address: blr.lrqad@deped.gov.ph * blr.lrpd@deped.gov.ph