Why Is Biodiversity So Important?
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Provided by: TED-Ed|Published on: April 27, 2021
Articles/Websites
Scientist Reviewed
3-12
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Synopsis
- This video details why biodiversity is crucial for our survival on Earth, introducing students to ecosystem diversity, species diversity, and genetic diversity.
- Students will learn about keystone species in the ocean, the interconnectedness of species within the Amazon rainforest, and the vulnerability of ecosystems to collapse.

Subjects: Biology
Authors: TED-Ed, Kim Preshoff
Region: South and Central America, Global
Languages: English
Teaching Materials
Positives
- This animated video explains the complex concept of biodiversity in an easy-to-understand way.
- The video has colorful images that support student understanding.
Additional Prerequisites
- You must sign in to use the "Think" and "Discuss" interactive features on the TED-Ed site.
- Students should have a basic understanding of the terms diversity, ecosystem, genetics, and species.
Differentiation
- In addition to science classes, this video could work in a social studies class that is learning about different parts of the world or a language arts class that is working on non-fiction reading and comprehension.
- While viewing, pause and ask students to explain the examples of biodiversity from the video.
- As an extension activity, ask groups of students to research another example of biodiversity that was not included in the video. Can they find an example from another ecosystem?
- Other resources related to this topic include Biodiversity and Humans, this video about coral reefs, and How Rainforests are Formed and How They are Being Destroyed.
Scientist Notes
Teaching Tips
Standards
Resource Type and Format
Scientist Reviewed
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Our review process ensures that every resource in our library reflects the current state of climate science.
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