Every living thing is connected. Our home province of Ontario is home to more than 70 endangered species. More than 70% of Ontario’s wetlands have been lost. Less than 3% of the tall grass savannah remains in southern Ontario. BEAN’s mission is to help sustain and restore biodiversity in Ontario. We can all work to protect human health, support the economy and preserve natural landscapes.
Biodiversity makes up Ontario’s natural life support system: biodiversity is how humans—and 14 million other species—survive.
Ontario teachers and educators deserve engaging, relevant, and fun activities designed to meet Ontario curriculum standards.
Newest Lesson Plan: Invasion of the Zebra Mussels is designed for Grade 12 Biology, Population Dynamics classes.
Activity Description: The harm caused by invasive species is now the second leading threat to global biodiversity. Students will examine and analyze a real data set of zebra mussel densities collected from the Rideau River Canal System and consider the importance of proper sampling techniques. Students will calculate the hypothetical population sizes of zebra mussels in Lake Erie, how long it would take zebra mussels to filter all of the water in Lake Ontario, and calculate the hypothetical population zebra mussels could reach in just five years. Students finish by researching possible zebra mussel control methods. Grade: 12 Biology, Population Dynamics Curriculum Links: F2.2, F3.3, F3.5 Key Words: zebra mussels, exponential growth, carrying capacity, population models
Meet the people and organizations behind BEAN.
BEAN is made of individuals representing governmental and non-governmental organizations that share a common goal: Helping Ontarians change behaviours to revitalize biodiversity. The Biodiversity Education and Awareness Network (BEAN) connects scientists and organizations with teachers, parents, and students to provide education and resources to recover and prevent biodiversity-loss in the province.
