Prairie Ecosystem Gizmo

A prairie dog uses it structures, or body parts to meet its needs. Which of these tells how the prairie dog structures help it meet it needs?

• tough claws to build burrows to hide from predators

• living in groups for protection from predators

• nocturnal to hunt for food at night

• speed to run away from predators

The box turtle's shell is a structure that helps the turtle survive in its environment. The function of the turtle's shell is to help the turtle --

• to get water.

• to get food.

• to get air.

• to have shelter.

Tags

NGSS.4-LS1-1

The hooves of a bison are a structure that helps it survive in a prairie environment. What is the function of the bison's hooves?

• to protect it from predators

• to help it find food

• to walk or run on uneven ground

• to help it release body heat

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS4-2

One structure of the white tailed jackrabbits is its large ears. What is one function of the jackrabbit ears?

• identify the direction of the wind

• communicate with other rabbits

• release body heat

• to attract a mate

Which structure allows the bull snake to camoflauge in the prairie grass?

• ability to hiss

• size of the fangs

• color of the scales

• strong sense of smell

What structure helps plants in the prairie survive wildfires?

• deep roots

• large leaves

• colorful flowers

• thick stems

Prairie bird beaks come in all shapes and sizes. All bird beaks have the same function. What is the function of a bird's beak?

• to dig to stay warm

• to get sunlight

• to fly from place to place

• to eat food from its environment

Prairie plants have structures, including colorful flowers, that help them survive in their environment. What is the function of the colorful flowers in prairie plants?

• to grow seeds

• to attract pollinators

• to prevent water loss

• to provide food for animals

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS1-4

A structural adapation of a prairie blazingstar is the narrow leaves. What is the function of the narrow leaves?

• attract pollinators to the plant

• protect the plant from predators

• lose less water from evaporation

• resist wildfires

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS1-6

Coyotes are adapated to hunt prey. Which structure makes coyotes great hunters?

• hunting in packs

• sharp teeth to tear flesh

• ability to howl loudly

• thick fur to keep it warm