Science·Ecosystems & Habitats·conceptual
The Carbon Cycle
Describe the carbon cycle, tracing carbon through photosynthesis, respiration, feeding, decomposition, and combustion, and explain the role of each process
Suggested ages 12–13
Evidence of understanding
- Draws or labels a diagram of the carbon cycle showing the main processes
- Explains how photosynthesis removes carbon dioxide from the atmosphere
- Explains how respiration, combustion, and decomposition return carbon dioxide to the atmosphere
- Discusses how human activities (burning fossil fuels, deforestation) disrupt the carbon cycle
Assessment prompt
If The Carbon Cycle was asked where the carbon in a wooden table came from originally, could they trace its journey through the carbon cycle — from the atmosphere, through a plant, into the tree, and back out again?
Standards alignment
MS-LS2-3US · ngss-ms
MS-LS2-3
Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) Middle School
KS3.Sci.Bio.Ecosystem.4GB · uk-nc-2013
The carbon cycle
The national curriculum in England: Key stages 1 and 2 framework document · KS3
KS3.Sci.Chem.EA.1GB · uk-nc-2013
The Carbon Cycle
The national curriculum in England: Key stages 1 and 2 framework document · KS3