Teacher’s Guide: Predator–Prey Simulation

Overview

This simulation helps students understand how predator and prey populations interact dynamically over time. It demonstrates cyclical patterns, ecological stability, and the effects of modifying parameters such as birth, death, and interaction rates.

Learning Objectives

• Model the feedback relationship between predators and their prey.
• Observe how changes to growth, death, and predation rates influence ecosystem balance.
• Interpret population graphs to explain biological processes.
• Understand how mathematical models can be used to study real-world ecological systems.

Getting Started

1. Open index.html in a browser.
2. Adjust parameters:
   • Prey birth rate
   • Predator death rate
   • Predation efficiency
   • Initial population sizes
3. Click Start Simulation to begin.
4. Use the graph to monitor population changes over time.

Suggested Exercises

Exercise 1: Classic Oscillations

• Use typical values (e.g., prey birth = 0.1, predator death = 0.1, predation = 0.01).
• Observe population cycles.

Prompt: Why does the prey population grow before predators? What causes the crash?

Exercise 2: Stability vs. Collapse

• Reduce prey birth rate or increase predation rate.
• Record what conditions lead to predator extinction or prey explosion.

Discussion: What combinations maintain stability? Which cause collapse?

Exercise 3: External Interference

• Introduce a sudden drop in prey (manual reset or code adjustment).
• Compare to natural events (drought, habitat loss).

Reflection Questions

• How do time lags in birth/death affect population curves?
• What assumptions does this model make?
• How might spatial models differ from these graphs?

Assessment Options

• Students annotate graphs showing cause-effect relationships.
• Use CSV output to calculate averages, amplitude, or frequency.