Invasive species affect all of us. From the food we eat to the places we play, invasive species can impact nearly every facet of our lives. They also provide a great way to teach your students about different ecological concepts such as competition, ecosystem disturbance, human impacts on the environment, and more. The following Next Generation Science Standards-aligned, middle school lessons teach your students about invasive species through the following:
- Conducting research
- Using technology to gather and visualize data
- Using ArcGIS Online mapping software
- Creating and testing models
- Taking action through a stewardship project
While the lessons build upon one another, they may be done as standalone activities and in whatever order fits your class format. These lessons were created using grant funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspections Service Plant Protection and Quarantine program.
Download the complete lesson plans.
Click the buttons below to access the handouts and resources that go along with each lesson plan.
Invasive Species Supply Kits
To enhance the lesson plans, the Washington Invasive Species Council has supply kits for teachers to borrow. The kits contain specimens and fact sheets. If you are interested in borrowing a kit for your classroom, fill out the form below. Usage of the kits depends upon availability.
Explore the contents of the kits (including links to videos and PDFs you may print for your classroom):
- Eastern Washington Supply Kit Inventory
- Western Washington Supply Kit Inventory
- Lesson Plan Video Playlist