In this lesson students will calculate an estimate of the number
of dandelions growing in their schoolyard. They will learn a
common subsampling protocol used by ecologists to estimate
population size. Students will help set up the experiment,
collect data, and calculate their results. 1. Students will be
able to define a population and understand why distribution and
abundance of individuals is important. 2. Students will be able
to set up a subsampling protocol and collect data in individual
plots 3. Students will know how to estimate a population based
on a subsampling protocol and be able explain why estimation is
important. - 2 Measuring tapes at 15m long for marking the study
plot - 2 metal stakes, one for the study plot and one for
marking the center of the sampling plot - 1 1m measuring tape
with "eyelet" at the end - Field guides for dandelions - Data
sheet on clipboard or piece of firm cardboard - Random numbers
table or other way to choose random numbers Begin by bringing in
some examples of dandel