B7 Ecology - L4 Quadrats Required Practical

Exam Board: AQA Combined Science Trilogy
Topic: B7 Ecology — Lesson 4 (Required Practical)

Overview

This lesson covers the Required Practical on ecology sampling, focusing on the use of quadrats and transects to investigate plant distribution and abundance. Students link ecological factors to sampling data and practise applying variables, method writing and exam skills.

Key Content Covered

• Abundance vs distribution definitions
• Independent, dependent and control variables
• Hypothesis-testing and field sampling decisions
• Scaling data, calculating mean & sampling accuracy

Lesson Features

• Retrieval Do Now
• Practical scenario + method writing
• Table construction + data interpretation
• Link to abiotic/biotic factors & competition
• Printed exam questions for assessment

Specification Links

Aligned with AQA Combined Science B7:
• Required Practical — Ecology sampling
• Investigating abiotic influence on populations
• Working Scientifically: variables, data & evaluation

Ideal For

• GCSE practical lessons
• Fieldwork preparation
• Exam practice & revision
• Cover lessons (with printed questions)