Lesson: Basics, Perspectives and Impact
What are the fundamental issues that arise in humans' use of environmental resources?
Humans need materials and energy. As we have learned, the earth is a closed system for matter, yet open in regards to some forms of energy. This lesson will examine the basic terminology and concepts that arise in our obtaining, producing, and using natural resources.
- Differentiate between “renewable” and “non-renewable” resources.
- Explain the relationship between resources and the concepts of materials collection, refinement, production, energy production and additional human needs.
- The human systems interact in dramatic ways with natural systems when it comes to our accessing, using and wastes generated by resources. Review and relate specific resources to the perspectives and impacts examined over the course of this semester. Special attention should be given to the benefits, drawbacks and future issues associated with individual resources.
- Distinguish between conservation, reuse and recycling.
Warm Ups, etc:
Resources Preview - questions about information that will be applied to concepts in this unit (fossils, geologic stratigraphy, renewable/nonrenewable)
Instruction, Presentations, Assignments, Activities, etc:
The 3 Rs - students complete a few questions about the basic principles of conservation.