Intro to Ecology
About this free Intro to Ecology course
Intro to Ecology is a free ecology course that uncovers the intricate connections that sustain life on Earth. Students learn how organisms interact with each other and their environment, how energy and nutrients cycle through ecosystems, and how populations grow and shrink.
The course also examines the role humans play in shaping the environment, from habitat loss and pollution to conservation. It gives students a deeper understanding of ecological systems and the tools to analyze environmental challenges effectively.
Who this course is for
This course is designed for students in grades 6 through 10. No prior biology course is required. It's a natural fit for environmental science units, eco clubs, and anyone who loves the outdoors.
Course outline
- What is ecology? Levels of ecological organization, from organisms to the biosphere.
- Ecosystems. Biotic and abiotic factors, habitats, niches, and biomes.
- Energy flow. Producers, consumers, decomposers, food chains, food webs, and energy pyramids.
- Nutrient cycles. How water, carbon, and nitrogen cycle through living and nonliving systems.
- Population dynamics. Population growth, carrying capacity, and interactions like predation, competition, and symbiosis.
- Humans and the environment. Human impacts on ecosystems and strategies for conservation and sustainability.
What you'll learn
- Describe the levels of ecological organization
- Trace energy through food chains, food webs, and energy pyramids
- Explain how matter cycles through ecosystems
- Describe what controls population size
- Analyze human impacts on ecosystems and propose solutions
How long it takes
Plan on about 6 hours, or one class period per topic. Adding local field observations, like a schoolyard biodiversity survey, makes the course even richer.
Frequently asked questions about Intro to Ecology
Is Intro to Ecology really free?
Yes. Intro to Ecology is completely free, with no fees, subscriptions, or account required. STEM for Others is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, and every course in our curriculum library is free for students, families, and teachers.
How does ecology relate to climate change?
Ecology explains how carbon moves between living things, the ocean, and the atmosphere, and how ecosystems respond when conditions change. For a deeper look at those cycles, try Biochemical Systems, which covers the carbon cycle and its role in climate.
How do I start the course?
Click Begin Course at the top of this page to open the full slide deck in a new tab. You can also flip through the slides embedded above. Work through one unit at a time and try the practice questions before moving on.
Do I get a certificate?
The self-paced Intro to Ecology materials don't include an official certificate. If you're taking the course through a STEM for Others chapter program, ask your chapter leader about recognizing your completion.
Can teachers and clubs use this curriculum?
Yes. Teachers, homeschool families, libraries, and after-school clubs are welcome to use the Intro to Ecology materials with their students at no cost. STEM for Others volunteers also teach our curriculum in partner schools and libraries. You can find a chapter near you or start one at your school.
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