In this reading, students will discover several invasive reptiles in the state of Florida, how they impact the ecosystem, and efforts being made to solve the problem. They will use the CER format to tie together the reading and support a claim.

This reading can be used alone or as the Explain portion of a 5E lesson plan Designed for a Reptile unit.

Unit Title: Exploring the World of Reptiles: Understanding the Class Reptilia through the Invasive Species of Florida.

Grade Level: High School (9th-12th grade)

NGSS Standards:

• HS-LS4-2: Construct an explanation based on evidence that the process of evolution primarily results from four factors: (1) the potential for a species to increase in number, (2) the heritable genetic variation of individuals in a species due to mutation and sexual reproduction, (3) competition for limited resources, and (4) the proliferation of those organisms that are better able to survive and reproduce in the environment.
• HS-LS2-8: Evaluate the evidence for the role of group behavior on individual and species’ chances to survive and reproduce.
• HS-LS2-7: Design, evaluate, and refine a solution for reducing the impacts of human activities on the environment and biodiversity.
• HS-ESS3-4: Evaluate or refine a technological solution that reduces impacts of human activities on natural systems.

Unit Overview: In this unit, students will explore the class Reptilia, focusing on the characteristics, adaptations, diversity, and ecological roles of reptiles. The unit will be framed around the anchoring phenomenon of the invasive reptiles in Florida, allowing students to investigate the impact of invasive species on ecosystems and the adaptations that enable species to thrive in new environments. Through hands-on activities, research, and collaborative projects, students will deepen their understanding of reptilian biology and ecology while addressing NGSS standards related to evolution, biodiversity, and human impacts on the environment.