Inspire Biology

Each square meter of area at the equator

receives more energy from the Sun than

each square meter at the poles.

South Pole

Sun rays

Equator

North Pole

Near the poles, the Sun’s energy strikes Earth

at an angle, spreading out the energy received

over a larger area than near the equator.

Effects of Latitude and Climate

Regardless of where you live, you are affected by weather and climate.

Weather

is the

condition of the atmosphere at a specific place and time. What causes the variation in

the weather patterns on Earth? One of the keys to understanding weather and its effect

on biological communities is to be aware of latitude and climatic conditions.

Figure 4

Because of Earth’s curved surface, the Sun’s rays strike the equator more directly than areas toward the north

or south poles.

FOCUS QUESTION

What characteristics do scientists consider when they are

describing different regions of the world?

LESSON 2

TERRESTRIAL BIOMES

Disciplinary Core Ideas

Crosscutting Concepts

Science & Engineering Practices

3D THINKING

COLLECT EVIDENCE

Use your Science Journal to

record the evidence you collect as

you complete the readings and

activities in this lesson.

INVESTIGATE

GO ONLINE

to find these activities and more resources.

BioLab:

How does your biome grow?

Plan and carry out an investigation

to determine the impact abiotic factors have on biomes.

Virtual Investigation:

Ecosystems, Organisms, and Trophic Levels

Use a model

to determine

energy

flow within

food webs

of biomes and

ecosystems.

Module 3 • Communities, Biomes, and Ecosystems