Biomagnification Lab – Modeling Biomagnification and Bioaccumulation Activity

Explore biomagnification and toxin buildup with this hands-on biomagnification lab with CER! Students model biomagnification using a simple candy simulation to track how mercury moves through a marine food chain, analyze changes in concentration across trophic levels, and observe how toxins increase in top consumers.

Students will read and learn about the processes of biomagnification and bioaccumulation and then apply that knowledge to model the processes using candies and plastic cups. Students will collect and analyze data from their models, answer analysis questions, and complete a CER activity.

Perfect for making an abstract concept visual, interactive, and easy to understand!

Biomagnification Lab Activity includes:

• Teacher Guide: Included is a detailed teacher overview with pictures of the lab in process, materials, set-up, tips, and guidance for running the lab smoothly. (2 pages)

• Biomagnification Lab Handout with Background Information & Procedure: A concise, student-friendly overview of biomagnification, bioaccumulation, and mercury movement through food webs, paired with clear, easy-to-follow procedures to guide students through the simulation. (1 page)

• Student Lab Handout: Students complete a data table as they complete the biomagnification lab simulation. They then use their data to answer analysis questions and a scaffolded CER activity. (2 pages)

• Answer Keys: Complete answer keys for data tables, analysis questions, and CER responses to support easy grading.

Editable (PPT), printable (PDF), and digital (Google Slides) versions are all included!

Simple Materials: Each group of students will need 15 small cups and 24 multicolored candies (like Skittles). If you do not wish to use food items, an editable version of the lab handout is included to meet your needs.

Pacing: This lab fits neatly into a single 45–60 minute period and works perfectly as part of your ecology unit.

Why teachers love this Biomagnification Lab:

• Simple setup: Just cups and candies make this lab easy to prep and run in your classroom.
• Highly visual learning: Students clearly see how mercury builds up and increases in concentration as it moves up the food chain through a hands-on simulation.
• Built-in math integration: Students track and analyze changes in mercury concentration across trophic levels using real data.
• Higher-level thinking included: Students use evidence from their data to explain patterns in biomagnification and complete a CER on how toxins impact organisms.
• NGSS Aligned: Supports HS-LS2-2 by having students use data to explain how factors like toxin accumulation affect populations and ecosystems.
• Multiple Formats and Editable: PDF, Google Slides, and an editable PowerPoint version are included in your download to meet your needs.

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