Encounters 8
Too Many, Too Few.
This year, in addition to completing ThinkCERCA reading/writing modules,
you will be researching invasive species or endangered animals.
Project Elements Invasive Species List
Endangerd Animal Outline Invasive Species Outline
Sample Outlines
Endangered Species Outline
I. Introduction (example is incomplete)
Include in your introduction the animal's common name as well as its scientific name and its physical description.
The thesis must stress why the animal needs to be saved.
Notice how this example introduction goes from its broad hook to the narrow thesis.
The Amazon rainforest is home to many unique animals and plants. Even though this biome has a rich biodiversity, many of its species are considered endangered because of the ongoing developmental activities that have significantly reduced the number of animals and plants in this habitat. The Poison Dart Frog (Dendrobatidae), for example, is one of the rarest amphibians on earth and is only found in the Amazon rainforest. They are considered endangered because their natural habitat is at risk of massive destruction. Efforts must be made to protect the Poison Dart Frog because if it becomes extinct, the spiders, ants, termites, and many other insects it feeds upon will become overpopulated, which can cause further harm to the environment.
II. Habitat 250-350 words
A. Where in the world does your animal live? Be specific.
B. Describe its habitat.
C. Is your animal's habitat in danger? If so, why?
D. Any adaptations that the species has that enable it to live in its habitat
III. Diet 250-350 words
A. What does your animal eat?
B. How does it find or catch its food? Does it hunt in a pack or solo?
C. Is your animal the prey of any other animal?
IV. Issues 350-500 words
Explain why your species is endangered and at what level (critically endangered, endangered, threatened, etc.). What is the current status of the species in the wild? In captivity? Does your animal's reproductive "situation" have anything to do with its endangered status? (How many babies does it have and how many grow up?)
V. Preservation Plan (Conclusion) 350-500 words
Explain why this species should be preserved. (EXAMPLE: If this species were to go extinct, how would it affect the habitat/food web where it is found?) What other factors must be considered when making decisions about this species? Support your statements with factual information, not emotional reactions. What is being done or can be done or should be done regarding your endangered species? In some cases, wildlife preserves may be an option. In other cases, negotiations with industries or other segments of society may be called for. Sometimes, it may appear that the species is not worth saving because the cost of preservation is greater than the cost of extinction.
Invasive Species List (animals and plants)
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Asian Carp
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Asian Longhorned Beetle
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Brown marmorated stink bug
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bullfrogs
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Burmese python
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cactus moth
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Canada thistle
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cane toads
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chinaberry tree
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Cogan grass
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Euonymus alatus (burning bush)
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giant salvinia
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Golden bamboo
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Gray squirrel
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gypsy moth
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killer bees
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kudzu
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Northern Snakehead
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nutria
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rabbits
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red fire ants
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starlings
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Tree of Heaven
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wild boar / feral swine
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zebra mussels
Example Invasive Species Outline
I. Introduction (150 words)
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Identify the invasive species and its scientific name;
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Explain the reasons for its introduction;
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Describe its impact on the ecosystem;
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Emphasize the importance of its elimination.
Example: The Burmese python, scientifically known as Python bivittatus, is an invasive species that poses a significant threat to the ecosystems of the Florida Everglades. Originally introduced as exotic pets, these large snakes have multiplied rapidly due to favorable conditions in their new habitat. Their presence disrupts the local food chain, leading to a decline in native wildlife populations. Eliminating the Burmese python is essential to restore balance in the ecosystem and protect native species from extinction. Effective control measures are vital to prevent further damage and ensure the survival of Florida’s unique biodiversity.
II. Taxonomy and Description (200-300 words)
III. Introduction to Non-Native Habitat (How did they/ it get here?) 300-400 words
IV. Adverse Effects (300-400 words)
A. Ecological
B. Environmental
C. Economic
V. Study, Control, and Eradication (Conclusion) (What's being done about it?) 250-350 words