Modeling+Population+Growth

=Rabbits and Wolves Simulation=

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 What would happen if there were lots more bunnies than there are were wolves? Would the bunnies take over and live forever? What would happen if there were lots more wolves than there are bunnies? Would the wolves live forever?

How do the rabbits and wolves live in balance in this game?

**Step 1: Develop your hypothesis**
Consider the parameters (variables) and develop a hypothesis to predict how changing variables effects predator and prey populations. An if-then statement is appropriate in this case, for example: "If the reproductive rate of the prey is increased then [ what must happen ] in order for the ecosystem to remain in balance. 

**Step 2 : Collect data**

 * Use the simulator to view how populations are effected by changing the variables. In many cases, changing the variables will result in a crash of both species. Finding the appropriate balance will require trial and error..
 * Keep notes of your data and outcomes, you will need this later for your lab report.
 * When your ecosystem is in balance, you will need to take a "snapshot" of your graph on the screen. To do this, find the "print screen" button on the keyboard. This does not actually print the screen, it actually copies the image. Open Microsoft Paint (or another image editor) and use the "copy" command to display an image of your graph. You will need to include this image into your lab report. You may also choose to use more than one image. You may wish to crop the image so that only the graph is seen.

**Step 3: Conclusions and Report**

 * Write your team report.
 * It should include your hypothesis, your data and a written conclusion of your findings.
 * This lab report does not need to be very long, a single page should be sufficient.

Conclusions:
> //* Accept or reject your hypothesis (prediction)// > //* EXPLAIN what happened in the experiment as you adjusted the variables (prey and predator reproductive rates, and the number of prey eaten// > //Write a concluding statement about how the simulation applies to real-life populations and predator prey cycles.// 

  =Bonus Population Model Activity that uses Microsoft Excel =    