Contextualization

The environment is of immeasurable value for the survival and well-being of all forms of life on Earth. It encompasses natural and built elements, physical and biological, such as water, air, soil, flora, and fauna, as well as urban structures, social relations, and cultures. In our current reality, understanding the environment is essential for sustainable living.

In this context, the key concept that underpins this project is Environmental Sustainability, which refers to the management and conservation of natural resources and life support systems, to ensure the continuity of their essential functions in supporting human life and other species.

Introduction

In the field of Geography, the discussion about the environment is central, as we deal directly with issues of the geographical space. Aspects such as the relationship between society and nature, the exploitation of natural resources, the environmental impacts of human actions, among others, are objects of study in this discipline. For this project, we will delve into four key theoretical concepts: Biomes,

Practical Activity - The Creation of a Mini-Ecosystem and Its Impacts

Project Objective

The objective of this project is to provide students with practical experience in building a mini-ecosystem (terrarium), where they will observe and analyze the functioning of biomes and the importance of balance for the sustainability of natural resources. In addition, they will investigate the possible environmental impacts that may arise in their mini-ecosystem and how to minimize them.

Detailed Project Description

Students, in groups of 3 to 5, will create a terrarium that simulates a biome, introducing different plant species and observing their interaction and survival over time (approximately 4 weeks). During this process, they will document their observations and conclusions in a project diary. Additionally, students should research different biomes and choose one to be represented in their terrarium.

Required Materials

• A large transparent glass container with a lid
• Small stones or gravel
• Activated charcoal (optional)
• Planting soil
• Small plant species
• Water
• Pencil and paper for recording observations

Detailed Step-by-Step for Activity Execution

1. Terrarium Preparation: in the glass container, place a layer of stones or gravel (for drainage), followed by a layer of activated charcoal (to prevent odors and fungi) and, finally, a layer of planting soil.
2. Introduction of Plants: choose a variety of small plants that are suitable for the chosen biome. The plants should be carefully introduced into the soil, ensuring they are securely in place.
3. Terrarium Maintenance: add a moderate amount of water, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. The terrarium should be kept in a location where it receives indirect sunlight.
4. Observation and Recording: over four weeks, students should observe and note changes in their mini-ecosystem, such as plant growth, appearance of fungi, changes in plant color, among others. They should also research the possible environmental impacts that could occur in their biome and how they would be represented in the terrarium.

Project Deliverables

At the end of the project, students will have a comprehensive report documenting the entire process of terrarium construction and observation. The report should follow the following format:

1. Introduction: contextualize the chosen biome and explain why it was chosen to be represented, in addition to the relevance of the project for understanding the environment.
2. Development: describe in detail the process of terrarium construction, plant selection, terrarium maintenance, and observations made during the four weeks. Additionally, explain the possible environmental impacts that were researched and how they would be represented in the terrarium.
3. Conclusions: comment on the main observations and learnings obtained throughout the project, and the conclusions about the importance of sustainability for the maintenance of the chosen biome.
4. Bibliography: list the sources used for research on the biome, the chosen plants, and the environmental impacts.

In this project, students should seek to deepen their understanding of how biomes function and the importance of environmental protection for sustainability. Additionally, they should develop skills in time management, communication, problem-solving, creative thinking, and proactivity.