CP10 Guide Lines Biology A Level Tutor
Activity 5.2
Guide Lines for Core practical 10: Patterns, Ecology
Looking for patterns
Core practical instructions given by Pearson can be found at this link:
https://qualifications.pearson.com/content/dam/pdf/A%20Level/biology-a/2015/teaching-and-learning-
materials/A_level_Biology_A_Core_Practical_10_-_Ecology_Investigation.pdf
Content:
1. Basic information on ecology and looking for patterns
2. Planning and Experimental Design
3. Health and Safety
4. Make a plan
5. Perform the experiment
6. Analysis and interpretation of data
7. Conclusion and evaluation
8. Write the report!
9. Sample of Data (Statistical test & Analysis)
10. Sample answer to a question from past papers
1/18
,CP10 Guide Lines Biology A Level Tutor
Point 1: Research the background science
Ecology is the study of patterns and process that explain the distribution,
abundance, and interactions among biotic and abiotic factors and the influence of
organisms on the flux of energy and materials through an ecosystem. Thus, in this
experiment you must know the different types of sampling, how to use quadrats,
how to measure biotic and abiotic factors. Thus, must research on all these
techniques before the investigation is started.
Sampling methods:
Random sampling: It allows an unbiased sample to be taken. For this the
investigator must set up a grid in the sampling area. Place tape measures at right-
angles to each other, on order to mark the sampling area. Then use a calculator to
generate a set of random numbers that will be used as coordinates for sampling
positions within the sampling area. If you are sampling fixed objects within an area
you could number the objects (e.g. trees) and then use random numbers to select
which one.
http://www.nuffieldfoundation.org/practical-biology/biodiversity-your-backyard
2/18
, CP10 Guide Lines Biology A Level Tutor
https://rgsbio09.wikispaces.com/10+Field+Study+Techniques
Systematic sampling: If conditions change across a habitat, then systematic sampling
should be used, where a transect is used, that is a line along which samples are taken.
This is done in order to study the changes across the habitat. When planning a transect
study you need to be sure you are collecting valid data that will test your hypothesis,
thus you also need to make the following decisions:
• An area that shows some clear relationships e.g, school grassy area that has a
region of high and low trampling.
• The position and length of any transect to use. You need to make sure your
transect extends far enough to sample all the possible zones.
• The size and number of quadrats to use, and their positioning.
https://www.biology-fieldwork.org/coast/sand-
dunes/fieldwork-collecting-vegetation-data.aspx http://additionalbio.blogspot.com.cy/2015/02/
3/18
Activity 5.2
Guide Lines for Core practical 10: Patterns, Ecology
Looking for patterns
Core practical instructions given by Pearson can be found at this link:
https://qualifications.pearson.com/content/dam/pdf/A%20Level/biology-a/2015/teaching-and-learning-
materials/A_level_Biology_A_Core_Practical_10_-_Ecology_Investigation.pdf
Content:
1. Basic information on ecology and looking for patterns
2. Planning and Experimental Design
3. Health and Safety
4. Make a plan
5. Perform the experiment
6. Analysis and interpretation of data
7. Conclusion and evaluation
8. Write the report!
9. Sample of Data (Statistical test & Analysis)
10. Sample answer to a question from past papers
1/18
,CP10 Guide Lines Biology A Level Tutor
Point 1: Research the background science
Ecology is the study of patterns and process that explain the distribution,
abundance, and interactions among biotic and abiotic factors and the influence of
organisms on the flux of energy and materials through an ecosystem. Thus, in this
experiment you must know the different types of sampling, how to use quadrats,
how to measure biotic and abiotic factors. Thus, must research on all these
techniques before the investigation is started.
Sampling methods:
Random sampling: It allows an unbiased sample to be taken. For this the
investigator must set up a grid in the sampling area. Place tape measures at right-
angles to each other, on order to mark the sampling area. Then use a calculator to
generate a set of random numbers that will be used as coordinates for sampling
positions within the sampling area. If you are sampling fixed objects within an area
you could number the objects (e.g. trees) and then use random numbers to select
which one.
http://www.nuffieldfoundation.org/practical-biology/biodiversity-your-backyard
2/18
, CP10 Guide Lines Biology A Level Tutor
https://rgsbio09.wikispaces.com/10+Field+Study+Techniques
Systematic sampling: If conditions change across a habitat, then systematic sampling
should be used, where a transect is used, that is a line along which samples are taken.
This is done in order to study the changes across the habitat. When planning a transect
study you need to be sure you are collecting valid data that will test your hypothesis,
thus you also need to make the following decisions:
• An area that shows some clear relationships e.g, school grassy area that has a
region of high and low trampling.
• The position and length of any transect to use. You need to make sure your
transect extends far enough to sample all the possible zones.
• The size and number of quadrats to use, and their positioning.
https://www.biology-fieldwork.org/coast/sand-
dunes/fieldwork-collecting-vegetation-data.aspx http://additionalbio.blogspot.com.cy/2015/02/
3/18
