Facebook Instagram

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.

 

$3.99

 

SKU 8205667 Categories , , , , ,
Biomagnification Lab
Biomagnification Lab
Biomagnification Lab
Save When You Purchase the Bundle!

Description

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.

 

MORE ECOLOGY LABS AND ACTIVITIES

 

PURCHASE ON TPT

Reviews

There are no reviews yet.

Only logged in customers who have purchased this product may leave a review.

Ask a Question ↗

Downloads

How do I find my downloads?

At the top of the page click MY ACCOUNT, then click DOWNLOADS in the list on the left. A link to all of your downloads can be found there.

You will also receive an automated email after each purchase with a link to every resource, so check your inbox and your spam or junk folder. Be sure to save your purchases to your hard drive and consider backing them up.

My download has a file-path error and will not open!

This is usually a character-length problem that happens when files sit in the Downloads folder on a PC. That folder is buried so deep on the computer that it can cause errors.

Try saving the file to My Documents instead of Downloads and see if that helps. If you are still stuck, email me and I will help you sort it out.

What types of resources do you sell?

Many resources come in both printable (PDF) and digital Google Slides™ formats. Some use Boom Learning for Boom Cards. Unless noted otherwise, please consider products non-editable.

Please read the product description to see exactly what file types you are purchasing.

Payment

What forms of payment do you accept?

You can pay by credit or debit card, PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay, or direct bank transfer (ACH) through our secure checkout.

We also accept purchase orders from schools, districts, and other educational institutions. See the Purchase Orders section for details. We do not accept personal checks or money orders outside of the purchase order process.

What is your refund policy?

Because we sell digital downloads, all sales are final and no refunds or exchanges are available.

If you are unsure whether a resource is right for your students, please email me before purchasing and I will gladly answer any questions.

I want to purchase multiple licenses. How does that work?

Each teacher license provides access for one teacher. Add the number of licenses you need to your cart and check out as normal.

Then email me with your order number and the name and email address of each additional teacher, and I will set up an account and access for each of them.

Am I responsible for sales tax?

Sales tax is applied where required by law, based on your location.

If your school or district is tax exempt, please email me a copy of your exemption certificate before purchasing so I can adjust your order.

You may also like…