A food chain shows giant kelp as the producer at the base leading to the first-level consumer sea urchin. The sea urchin leads to the second-level consumer sea otter. Your lab partner Sam said since kelp are not plants and they grow in the water, they cannot undergo photosynthesis. Critique Sam’s statement. Then construct an explanation using evidence from the art and text reminding Sam of the roles kelp play in cycling matter through kelp forest organisms.

Total Points: 3
Scoring Criteria
1 pt
I correctly identify whether or not Sam is incorrect in his claim that kelp “cannot undergo photosynthesis.”
1 pt
I provide the correct evidence to either support or refute Sam’s claim
1 pt
I correctly explain the cycling of matter through the kelp forest ecosystem.