Invasive Species- What's the worst that could happen? – Grades 9-12

Post-Visit Wrap-Up: Present Your Case!
Discussion of Findings
Encouraging students to communicate observations in their own words is key to developing
understanding. After your visit, bring students together so they can share what they discovered
(observations, notes, drawings) while exploring Liberty Science Center’s exhibitions.
Development of Projects
Using what they learned in the exhibitions, students will create a report on the potential threat
of an invasive species to a Hudson River ecosystem. They will describe the worst case scenario
of the introduction of this species into the ecosystem. They should include in their report the
characteristics and the type of organism that they think poses the greatest risk, the impact this
organism would have on the ecosystem, how they would prevent the introduction of the species
into a Hudson River ecosystem, and their plan to control the spread of this species should it gain
a foothold in the region. This activity can be expanded by having students present a brief of their
report to the class.
Presentation of Projects
Provide students with time to share their briefs with the class.
Extensions
To extend learning across the curriculum, students can:
• Produce materials to educate the public about how to prevent the introduction of their invasive
species, or how to slow spread if their species once it is introduced. A drawing or picture of
the species should be included so that people can easily identify it. Materials might include
posters, pamphlets or public service announcements.
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Discovery Challenges Invasive Species: Grades 9-12