Ecology evo-edu.org

Predator-prey and ecological feedback simulations for investigating cycles, stability, and intervention.

Standards

EcoBalance standards and alignment

This page maps the app to standards-facing classroom use while staying explicit about model limits and evidence expectations.

Teacher guide Learner guide

Alignment Notes

  • NGSS HS-LS2-1: Use mathematical or computational representations to support explanations of factors that affect carrying capacity.
  • NGSS HS-LS2-2: Use mathematical representations to support and revise explanations based on ecosystem interactions.
  • Practices: using models, analyzing and interpreting data, computational thinking, revising explanations from evidence.

What learners should produce

Minimum evidence

  • A prediction about how one changed ecological factor will alter the system.
  • A comparison of prey and predator behavior across at least two runs.
  • An explanation that distinguishes oscillation, temporary balance, and collapse.

Model limits to keep visible

  • This is a compact predator-prey model, not a full ecosystem forecast.
  • The parameters stand in for more complex ecological processes.
  • Observed model behavior supports ecological reasoning, not automatic real-world certainty.