In this simulation lab students model how energy is obtained from the sun and then passed to each trophic level as it moves through a food chain. Students will activity move energy beans from the sun to the producer but must "burn" 9 energy beans before they can store energy beans. The primary consumer will also have to wait until the producers have enough stored energy to allow them to eat and continue the cycle. The goal of this activity is to have students learn through the process of inquiry about the 10% rule, why the energy pyramid has a specific shape and the importance of producers in any ecosystem.