Not From Around Here

A healthy ecosystem is one in which multiple species of different types are each able to meet their needs in a relatively stable web of life. However, this balanced ecosystem can be thrown off by newly introduced species. These organisms are called invasive species, as they are not native to the ecosystems in which they are introduced. Oftentimes, humans are responsible for introducing invasive species to new ecosystems. Regardless of intent, invasive species have both positive and negative impacts on the ecosystem. In this lesson, students will engage in a text read-aloud to gather evidence to explain how human actions can lead to both positive and negative effects on various ecosystems.