English National Curriculum - Science
Mission Objectives
Define trophic levels and identify them in food chains, food webs and pyramids of biomass
Define biomass and describe how it can be measured
Explain why not all biomass is passed from one trophic level to the next
Save files related to this lesson
Words and meanings to learn
decomposers
organisms, such as bacteria and fungi, that break down dead plant and animal matter, releasing nutrients back into the environment and recycling them through the ecosystem
apex predator
a predator at the top of a food chain that has no natural predators and plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance of the ecosystem
energy transfer
the movement of energy through the trophic levels of a food chain or food web
trophic level
the hierarchical positions in a food chain, representing the flow of energy and nutrients from one organism to another
pyramid of numbers
The pyramid of numbers is a graphical representation showing the number of individual organisms at each trophic level in an ecosystem.
Samantha is a dedicated and accomplished science educator with over 15 years of leadership experience in the field, coupled with a strong background in scientific analysis. She has a proven track record of strategically managing educational departments, driving operational efficiencies, and nurturing collaborative relationships with stakeholders.
Samantha previously served as the Head of Chemistry and Sixth Form Tutor, Ilkley Grammar School, Ilkley with extensive Key Stage 4 and 5 teaching experience and leadership. In addition to her teaching and leadership roles, she is also an examiner for AQA, providing her with valuable insight into assessment standards and exam specifications.
In her spare time, Samantha enjoys playing the accordion with her local orchestra and has recently taken up cricket, where she's enthusiastically honing her skills both on and off the pitch!
Handouts: 10 minutes on biomass and trophic levels.
Expert film
Mission assignment film
Address
Developing Experts Limited
Exchange Street Buildings
35-37 Exchange Street
Norwich
NR2 1DP
UK
Phone
01603 273515
Email
[email protected]
Copyright 2025 Developing Experts, All rights reserved.
Unlock expert-designed lessons, resources, and assessments tailored for educators. No credit card required.
Claim Your Free Trial →
