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Instruction

Native vs. Non-native Species: Who Will Win? Lesson Plan

Session 2

Print version of "Native vs. Non-native Species: Who Will Win?": PDF • Word

Conduct this session in the classroom.

1. Inform students that they will produce "Wanted" posters detailing the characteristics of their non-native organism, using the results of their research from Session 1. The format of the poster should resemble the following example:
   
   

   Wanted: [name of organism], an invasive non-native [plant, animal, or fungus] [Students draw picture here.] Hometown: [native habitat] Last seen: [region where problems have occurred] For the crime of: [problems resulting from its invasion]

2. Direct students to organize themselves into two groups: (1) organisms that live in water, and (2) organisms that live on land. Direct students to further sort themselves into subgroups of animals, plants, and fungi.
   
3. Ask each student to tell for what crime his or her organism is wanted, or display the posters so that students can read all posters.
   
4. Discuss with students how humans may have played a role in introducing the organisms detailed on the "Wanted" posters. Discuss methods in use for controlling or eliminating the "wanted" organisms as well as laws enacted to prevent or control non-native invasive species.
   

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