A study of the interrelationships of man, populations, space, energy, food, mineral resources, and other life on earth.

1. Analyze information using the scientific method.

2. Demonstrate critical thinking about concepts of ecology and integrate that knowledge into practical application

     to daily life.

3.  Describe interrelationships among producers, consumers and decomposers and their environment.

4.  Describe human use and impacts on the environment.

5.  Describe environmental and resource issues and possible resolutions.

 

I.  Introduction

        A.    Scientific method

        B.    Brief history of ecology and environmental science

        C.    Environmental issues of developed and developing countries

 

II.  Scientific Principles

       A.     Energy and the laws of thermodynamics

       B.     Atoms, molecules and conservation of matter

       C.     Traits of living organisms

 

 III.  Ecosystems and Communities

       A.     Trophic structures

       B.     Biogeochemical cycling

       C.     Theory of natural selection

       D.     Community interactions and relationships

       E.      Biodiversity and taxonomy

       F.      Biomes and climate

       G.     Population dynamics

 

IV.  Human Impacts on Ecosystems

       A.     Human population growth

       B.     Agriculture and food

       C.     Risk analysis and toxicity

       D.     Air pollution and climate change

       E.      Water pollution

       F.      Loss of biodiversity

       G.     Solid and hazardous waste

       H.     Energy resources

       I.       Sustainability and conservation

 

Wright, R.T.  (2005) Enviromental Science Toward A Sustainable Future (9^th Edition).  NJ; Pearson Prentice Hall