---
title: "How Organisms Shape Habitats"
description: "Construct an argument supported by evidence for how plants and animals can change the environment to meet their needs"
canonical: https://lightmysky.com/learn/science/how-organisms-shape-habitats-mt_qixeaiswFP
source: https://lightmysky.com/learn/science/how-organisms-shape-habitats-mt_qixeaiswFP.md
retrieved: 2026-10-19
---

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# How Organisms Shape Habitats

Construct an argument supported by evidence for how plants and animals can change the environment to meet their needs

Subject: Science · Area: Earth's Systems · Ages 5 to 6
Page: https://lightmysky.com/learn/science/how-organisms-shape-habitats-mt_qixeaiswFP

## Ready when they can

- Give at least three examples of organisms changing their environment (beaver dams, bird nests, plant roots breaking rock)
- Explain why organisms change their environment (to meet needs for shelter, food, water)
- Construct an argument with evidence showing how a specific organism changes its environment

## Lesson: How Living Things Change Their Home

Think about the things you need: shelter, food, and water. Animals and plants need these things too. Sometimes they change their world to get them.

**Example.** A beaver needs a safe home. It cuts down trees with its teeth. It piles logs and mud across a river. This builds a dam. The dam blocks the water and makes a pond. The beaver builds its lodge in the new pond.

*(drawing: Step by step, the beaver turns a river into a pond.)*

Birds build nests in trees to stay safe. Tree roots can grow into cracks in rocks. As roots grow, they can crack the rock apart. These changes help the plant or animal survive.

**Tip.** Look for clues outside. A pond where a river used to be shows a beaver's work. A cracked sidewalk might show tree roots underneath.

**Recap.** Plants and animals change their homes to get shelter, food, and water.

## Practice

8 questions on this page, each with its working shown.

## Needs first

- [What Living Things Need](https://lightmysky.com/learn/science/what-living-things-need-mt_L1469gt34A)