Chapter 1: Science and the Environment
In this chapter, we explore what environmental science is and how it connects to ecology and other scientific fields. We’ll look at how human activities—from hunting and farming to industrialization—have shaped the environment over time. You’ll also learn the differences between renewable and nonrenewable resources, and dive into major environmental issues like pollution, resource depletion, and loss of biodiversity. Finally, we’ll consider how economics, population growth, and sustainability play a role in our environmental impact—and what it might take to build a sustainable future for everyone.
Chapter 2: Tools of Environmental Science
In this chapter, we dive into how science actually works—starting with the scientific method and what makes a hypothesis testable (hint: it’s not just an educated guess). You’ll learn how scientists design controlled experiments, analyze data, and communicate their findings. We’ll also explore how statistics and different types of models—from physical to mathematical—help us make sense of environmental data. Finally, we’ll apply a decision-making model to real-world environmental issues and learn how to balance values, consequences, and risk when making tough choices.
Chapter 3: The Dynamic Earth
In this chapter, we explore Earth’s major systems—geosphere, atmosphere, hydrosphere, and biosphere—and how they interact to shape our planet. You’ll learn about the structure of Earth’s interior, plate tectonics, and the powerful forces behind earthquakes, volcanoes, and erosion. We’ll break down how the atmosphere traps heat (hello, greenhouse effect), why weather happens where it does, and how energy moves through air. Then we’ll dive into the water cycle, ocean currents, and how Earth’s oceans act like a giant thermostat for the planet. Finally, we’ll zoom in on the biosphere—the thin slice of Earth where life exists—and what keeps that life going. Get ready to see Earth as one big, interconnected system.
Mrs. Ederington 