STANDARD COMPETENCIES:

 

 1.   Define environment, environmental science, and ecology.

 2.   Discuss the stages of environmental conservation.

 3.   Describe the scientific method of inquiry.

 4.   Define and explain how the laws of thermodynamics regulate ecosystems.

 5.   Summarize the ecological significance of trophic levels and succession.

 6.   Describe the components and characteristics of terrestrial and aquatic biomes.

 7.   Summarize the principles of toxicology and risk assessment.

 8.   Analyze how soil characteristics influence soil erosion and degradation.

 9.   Identify benefits and problems with pesticide usage.

 10. Describe the geologic rock cycle and geological hazards.

 11. Apply the structure of the atmosphere to Earth's weather and climate.

 12. Evaluate the causes and effects of global warming.

 13. Describe the types and effects of water, air, and soil pollution and how their quality affects biodiversity.

 14. Compare and contrast conventional and sustainable energy sources.

 15. Discuss environmental laws, ethics, and policies.

 16. Relate environmental issues to population and economic growth.

 17. Describe ecological responses to environmental change.

 18. Evaluate the pros and cons of fossil fuel and renewable energy resources.

 19. Relate natural hazards and waste management to appropriate land use.

 20. Demonstrate ability to collect and analyze data collected in the field.

 TOPICAL OUTLINE:

 

 I.      Science and the Environment

 II.     Politics, Economics, and the Environment

 III.    Ecosystems and Biomes

 IV.     Ecological Responses to Environmental Change

 V.      Population Growth and Dynamics

 VI.     Environmental Health and Toxicology

 VII.    Managing Biological Resources

 VIII.   Pesticide Use and Pest Management

 IX.     Management of Forests, Rangelands, Parks, and Wetlands.

 X       Managing for Biodiversity

 XI.     Geology and Earth Resources

 XII.    The Atmosphere: Weather and Climate

 XIII.   Air Quality

 XIV.    The Water Cycle and Freshwater Resources

 XV.     Water Quality

 XVI.    Conventional and Sustainable Energy

 XVII.   Solid, Toxic, and Hazardous Waste

 XVIII.  Meeting Future Energy Demands

 XIX.    Environmental Policy, Law, and Planning

 XX      Land-use Conflicts