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APES! Assignments

Instructor
Kathy May
Terms
Fall 2014
Spring 2015
Department
Science
Description

This will be your go to site for all homework and announcements. It is your job to check this site everyday to find out any homework or info you need for class :)


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Hi Juniors!! Here is a list of topics for to study for the final :)
1. On page 386 of your book there is a section that shows the various efficiencies (or in this case inefficiencies) of a few different devices, study this info and know it. Also try to recall the second law of thermodynamics.
2. Here are a few words that you should know the definitions of ; Photosynthesis, Eutrophication, Denitrification, Decomposition, and Transpiration,
3. Please know the basic minerals/elements that make up the Earths core/mantle and crust, this info can be found in your notebook
4. Also, know the gasses that make up the earths atmosphere and what their different %'s are. This can also be found in your notebook
5. Aluminum is a mineral that is found in combination with an ore known as bauxite, in order to extract the aluminum, the bauxite ore must be heated and a chemical solvent must be introduced :) (some trivia for you)
6. Here are more vocab words for you to know; nitrification, assimilation, ammonification, nitrogen fixation-----looks like you should revisit the nitrogen cycle!
7. Hey do you remember what causes Acid rain?
8. How do metals such as lead and mercury affect the human body?
9. Where and why is ozone good and where and why is ozone bad?
10. Recall the purpose of electrostatic precipitators and wet scrubbers. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electrostatic_precipitator
11. Find a world map with biomes on it. Know where and in what countries one would find boreal forests and temperate deciduous forests.
12. Know the graph on page 163 on population ecology, be able to label the different parts: biotic potential, carrying capacity, logistic growth, exponential growth.
13. Know what GDP is and also GNP
14. Know what the HIPPO acronym is and how habitat destruction affects species in the world
15. Know the following different types of energy, and how they work: geothermal energy, photovoltaic cells, hydroelectric power, biomass, and wind.
16. Know a the following laws and what they mean: The Montreal Protocol, The Clean Air Act, CERCLA.
17. Know the different ways that treated water from a wastewater treatment plant is disinfected in the advanced stages.
18. Do you remember what fecal coliform is, and what it can be an indication of in water?
19. Please be familiar with the phosphorus cycle, and remember the question from this years APES test on phosphorus?
20. Remember the formula for growth rate, CBR-CDR/10, and how to solve these types of problems.
21. Know how humans dispose of solid waste.
23. Be able to differentiate between the different age structure graphs and know how the different shapes reflect the how the countries populations grow
24. What causes the earth to have "seasons"?
25. Know the basic characteristics of the Green Revolution.
26. Look up "cogeneration" what is it and what are a few ways it can work?
27. Which type of soil has the highest water holding capacity, and what types of things can influence water holding capacity of soil?
28. What is one disadvantage of burning trash to get rid of it?
29. What are some methods for minimizing soil erosion?
30. Do you remember what mitigation banking is?
31. In the beginning of your notebook, the is a section on synergy, look that up and be able to explain what synergy is?
32. How do ocean currents affect the earth in terms of mixing up the temperature?
33. Be able to do a problem in which you have to calculate how many people would be added to a country given the population and the annual rate of increase (growth rate)
That's it folks!!! Good luck!!
 
 

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Hi! this is for the extra credit assignment final write up. I would like you to do a formal lab write up. Each person must contribute equally to the write up, you may do a power point or a paper write up. Please initial all parts. The write up should consist of the following. ADDENDUM: I totally forgot to tell you to ADD THE PICTURES :) I would like the following pics for each section. (This applies to both the student groups who do the power point or the paper write up) The pics should be of the garden, before and after, you taking data, some of the instruments you used, a few random and relevant pics of your choice, etc.......
"the following" see below
1. creative title (include picture here) 
2. purpose of this project (1-2 sentences) (include picture here)
3. a bit of background on biodiversity in ecosystems (1 to 2 paragraphs) (include picture here)
4. data section which includes neat/labeled/clear data tables of ALL the data including all chemical tests, physical tests, weather, biodiversity and humus depth.( Include several pics here showing your group doing at least 3 of the tests, label and describe each pic)
5. GRAPHS of all data. Please make this section very clear, include the control data for each parameter on the SAME graph as your data, use different colors
6. EACH group needs to come to me and sign the control data week that you were responsible for, then I will make copies of the control data for each group.
7. Lastly please write a detailed conclusion about ALL of your results (include picture here)
*****if you did not finish taking data, go ahead and do a lab write up for the data that you did get. You will not earn quite as many points as those students who showed up every week, but you will still get points!
8. This is due THURS 5/22.

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MANDATORY EXTRA CREDIT MEETING THURSDAY AT LUNCH, this is for the students who are doing the extra credit project
 

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Extra Credit folks. We will test this week and next week and then that will be it. You will then do a formal lab write up (not sure of format yet) Details to come, be sure you have been signing in :)
 

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SENIORS, here is a list of topics to study for your final, which is on Tuesday May 19th. 50 questions on final
please focus your studying on the following:
-global water resources chapter 14, know how is water distributed throughout the various regions of the world
-greenhouse gases and their sources, anthropogenic and non anthropogenic (ch 20)
-energy sources, both renewable and nonrenewable as well as advantages and disadvantages. etc. (ch 16 and 17)
-layers of the atmosphere etc (ch 19)
-species richness vs species evenness (see your notebook)
-BOD vs DO Oxygen Sag curve (ch. 21)
-Ocean zones, characteristics of etc. (ch 6)
-solar energy (ch 17)
-Various methods of deforestation (ch 10) (I think, you may have to find this on your own) (oh the horror :)
-soil types and their characteristics (ch.5)
-Eutrophication (ch 21)
-know how to calculate population density
-causes and effects of global climate change (ch 20)
-phytoremediation  (ch 22)
-methods to reduce SO2 and NO2 from coal burning power plants (ch 19)
-demographic transition (ch 9)
-ozone hole issues-CFC's etc. (ch 20)
-half life (ch 2 I think)
-clean air act (ch 19)
-clean water act (ch 21)
-RCRA and CERCLA (ch 22)
-Age structure diagrams (ch 9)
-Water treatment (ch 21)

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All late packets are due today, no exceptions, however packet #17 is due by thurs 5/7

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AHHHHH.....now just sit back and study for the APES test, remember, there will be things you have not heard before, just focus on what YOU DO KNOW, go with what is familiar to you. The test is designed to have you think about things you have never thought of before, and apply into to new situations, it's okay. Go with what you know. Review the math we have done, study your notebook, it will help you oodles! Good luck, and what ever happens, I have certainly enjoyed this time with each and every one of you!!!!!

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NOTE: it is absolutely essential that you all carefully study the power points for chapter 22 and chapter 20, and be sure you understand the content of each power point. As you are studying, write down questions that you have and you can ask them in class 
Also the key for the review test was posted a while back so you can answer and then correct all of those 400 and something questions. 
Please look at the power point slides on ch 22 power point:
1) name and describe the two laws described in that power point regarding hazardous waste.
2) Now take a look at ch 20 and the power point for ch 20 and check out the "tying up loose end"z power point uploaded a few days ago. Look at the second to last slide and watch both of those two youtube videos, then answer the following questions in your head or on paper
1) how is Ozone in the stratosphere formed?
2) what is uv radiation and what does it to to living things, what are some of the different effects of over exposure to uv light?
3) what are the causes and effects of ozone depletion?
4) what are some strategies for reducing ozone depletion?
5) What is the major treaty that deal with ozone depletion?
6) What are greenhouse gases and what is the greenhouse effect?
expand description
OMG this is your last AP TEST PASSING homework assignment this year!!!!!!!!  this deals with Global Warming.....please read (ch 20), look at ch 20 power point, and google to find answers to the following questions. 
1. research and describe in good detail 4 impacts and consequences of Global climate change......some examples are: less severe winters, less precipitation in wet areas, excessive heat, lack of water, melting snow and ice, rising sea levels, changing ocean currents, warming and more acidic oceans, extreme weather. changes in biodiversity, changes in agriculture......your description of each should include detail!!!!! (in your head or on paper)
2. describe three viable options for reducing climate change see page 480-482  3. What are the relevant laws and treaties related to the reduction of greenhouse gases? 
4. Now to switch gears.......read about endangered species in your books pages 223 on. If you can try to skim through the whole chapter and look at all of the bold subheadings and the case studies and know the following 
-endangered and extinct species and examples 
-HIPPO 
-ESA and CITES 
-importance of wild species 
-causes of the endangerment and extinction of species: ie habitat destruction, invasive species 
-different approaches to saving species expand description
IF YOU DO ALL OF THIS WORK.....YOU SHOULD GET A 5!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

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1. read or skim through page 555 on Noise pollution, explain what some sources of noise pollution are and what the effects of noise pollution are. What are some was to control noise pollution?
2. Next, read or skim through chapter 22, and/or take a look at the power point that was attached a few days ago for that chapter-what are the different types of "solid waste?
3. What are the ways that we humans dispose of solid waste?
4. What are some ways that we humans can reduce our solid waste?
5. What are some types of Hazardous waste?
6. What are some ways to "treat" hazardous waste?
7. What are some ways to clean up hazardous waste sites?
8. Study the diagrams 22-10 on page 530 and 22-12 on page 532, know at least two adv/disadv of each way of waste disposal. expand description
Here is a list of topics that I would like you to review if you are shaky on these (for the AP test), Please look through these before the test and if you have questions, ask me.
-ecological niches -natural selection -evolution -ecological succession and climate shifts -R vs K selected species (reproductive strategies) -survivorship curves -population ecology -tree plantations -old growth forests -forest fires -national forests  -overgrazing -deforestation -federal rangelands  (see attached power point for chapter 10 for this info, as well as other important info on biodiversity)  -suburban sprawl -urbanization -wilderness areas, -national parks -wildlife refuges -sustainable land use strategies -preservation -remediation -mitigation -restoration (see attached power point "tying up loose ends" for more info) -fishing techniques -overfishing -relevant laws regarding fishing (see attached power point chapter 12 on aquatic biodiversity) -cost benefit analysis -externalities -marginal costs -sustainability -read through the attached power point on chapter 11 too.....again if you are shaky on the infoexpand description
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Just Try to get this done before the AP test, it will help you cover all your bases in terms of covering all of the topics, please read the major points for the rest of Ch 19. then respond to the following questions either in your head or on paper
1.what are some major sources of air pollution?
2.what are primary vs secondary pollutants, and give examples of each
3.what are the major pollutants (442) and what are their effects
4. what is acid deposition and what are it's causes and effects?
5.what are "urban Heat Islands" (google this) and what is a temperature inversion and what factors lead to a place or area being particularly susceptible to having recurrent temperature inversions?  I have downloaded the ch 19 and ch 18 power points.....read through both of them when you get the chance! expand description
-Read (or skim through as much as possible), chapter 18,and then open up the ch 18 power point, read through that power point and then respond to the following questions
1. Look at page 433, read about risk analysis.......What is it? 
2. What is the difference between acute and chronic effects and give examples of human health hazard that would be considered chronic, and a human health hazard that would be considered acute.
3. Look at the power point at slide 21 "dose/response curve" what is a dose response curve......google this.
4. What is LD-50? Google this
5. What are some risks facing the human population?
6. Evaluate the risk associated with the use of DDT to control mosquito populations in developing countries, do you support the total ban on DDT or do you support the use of it to control mosquitos?
7.Read the case study on smoking p 434. Summarize it in your head

 I am downloading five more power points, ch 22 on Solid waste...please read through the entire power point and focus most on the following: Solid waste types and disposal and reduction, and Hazardous chemicals: types of hazardous waste, treatment and disposal of up hazardous waste, clean-up of contaminated sites, biomagnification, laws RCRA, and CERCLA.  
 
Also, check out the power point ch 20, for this power point, as you read through it, focus on the formation of stratospheric ozone, UV radiation, causes of Ozone depletion, effects of Ozone depletion, strategies for reducing ozone depletion, and the laws and treaties involved, also focus on greenhouse gases and the greenhouse effect, impacts and consequences of global climate change, reducing climate change, and any laws. 
 
I downloaded ch 18 power point a few days ago, for that power point, as you read through it, focus on Hazards to human health, environmental risk analysis, acute and chronic effects, dose/response relationships LD_50!!!, air pollutants, smoking and other risks..  
 
A few more loose endz: 
-Minimata disease- named after a town in Japan, an affliction causing brain damage and birth defects and mental retardation, caused by a coal factory dumping mercury laden waste into a local water supply......:( please youtube this to see what it looks like. 
-CITES-convention on International Trade of Endangered Species.....makes it illegal to transport endangered species internationally 
-Species richness and species evenness both define biodiversity....richness is the number of different species, whereas evenness is the number of members within each species. Both need to happen if an ecosystem is truly considered diverse. 
-California Condor, Whooping Crane...both examples of endangered species, please read carefully through ch 10 power point and ch 11 power point to gain insight on endangered species 
-Check out the power point on Ch 12 and really get to know the different fishing techniques and which ones are unsustainable and which ones are sustainable...see also pages 253 to 260 in your book! SOME OF THIS IS REPEAT INFO (stuff I already taught you, so this will help you review)

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MORE PASSING THE APES TEST Hi
For tonight's hw please do the following
1. watch the following video entitled "Peak Oil"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AhYoXG9Mnmk&feature=related
write up a one paragraph summary of the content of the video.
2. do the attached FR, 2008 #1 Green Goo you can do a virtual write up too :)
3. Read the first 10 pages of chapter 19, we are going to cover air pollution next
 4. Did you read chapter 17??? Please do so ASAP
 
Hi People, be sure you understand how acid deposition is formed and what the env consequences of acid rain are and some solutions for reducing it AND cleaning it up. Then revisit the section ch 19 on indoor air pollution and once you really read that section I think you will be flabbergasted! I was. Next please answer the following questions.
1. what is indoor air pollution and what are a couple of alarming facts about it that the book discusses? 
2. Why is it a good idea to have a "no shoes in the house" rule in your home? 
3. Please list and describe at least 4 types of indoor air pollution. 
4. What is one remedy for alleviating radon poisoning in your home? 
5. What are some of the ugly health effects of air pollution? 
6. Is air pollution a "big Killer" support your response with a least two facts from the reading 
7. Describe the "Clean AIr Act" 
8. Some solutions for reducing indoor air pollution? 
9. Please do FR 2001 #3 INdoor Air Pollution (attached) and 2010 #1 and #4 (Bring print outs of these to class with you) **THIS IS MANDATORY

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PASSING THE APES TEST HOMEWORK Hey students, I understand that this homework is too much, so just do it at your own pace, take your time, just make sure it is finished before it's officially due (which will be when I dole out the rubrics)
Okay for tonight's hw please read pages 354-364.....then do a bit of research on google on how to extract and purify oil/coal/natural gas. 
1 write down in chart form the basic extraction and purification methods for each.
2. Next research or use your book and find out which countries are the top three in terms of supply for oil/coal/natural gas.  Write down and Be sure you know the top three countries for each, in terms of supply.
3.Next give a chart that tells which country uses the most oil/coal/natural gas.
4. Now make a t-chart that gives the advantages and disadvantages of using Natural gas
5. Please research "Fracking" Explain what it is, where it is happening, and give three advantages and three disadvantages of this practice.

PART 2: please read and I do mean read :) pages 365-381, after you read the case study on page 379, please explain what Yucca mountain is, then google Yucca mountain and explain your findings about whether or not it will be a viable spot for the storage of nuclear waste. Do you think nuclear power is a viable power source for the future of the United States, why or why not?
 
read all of chapter 17, you may answer on paper to study later 
1. Explain what energy efficiency is and what the advantages of being energy efficient are (p 384-385)
2. Describe three ways to achieve energy efficiency (387)
3. What are CAFE standards-----google this if need be
4. What are the "hidden costs of gasoline"? (388)
5. What are some of the reasons that the US has such poor fuel efficiency in transportation? (388)
6. Describe how a hybrid vehicle works (389) (carefully examine the diagram)
7. What is "mass transit" google this....then explain how it benefits society.
 
http://www.hydrogen.energy.gov/pdfs/doe_h2_fuelcell_factsheet.pdf
Please go to the above website and read all about hydrogen fuel cells. Be able to describe what fuel cells are and how they work. Then list or know two to three advantages and two to three disadvantages of Hydrogen fuel cells.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Small_hydro
http://www.daycreek.com/dc/html/dc_hydro.htm
Next go to the above websites on small scale hydroelectric power, read all about it. Be able to describe what small scale hydro power is, and give a few strategies for implementing it. How feasible is this as a power source for small communities that have running streams and rivers?
http://inventors.about.com/od/tstartinventions/a/tidal_power.htm
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tidal_power
Now go to the above websites and read about tidal energy, be able to describe what it is and how it works, describe the different types of tidal energy and then tell the advantages and disadvantages of tidal energy

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Hi This Entry is just for students who are working on the extra credit project. Some one, who shall remain nameless, put all the equipment back in the WRONG containers!!! If this happens again, it will result in a loss of half of the credit for that group or individual. It's just a matter of common respect.

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HOMEWORK TO PASS THE AP TEST :)
1. Please read pages 42-46 and read through the information on the following website http://www.nmsea.org/Curriculum/Primer/forms_of_energy.htm . Be sure to familiarize yourself with each form of energy.
2. Now, check out the link on power, from wikipedia, what is "power" and how is it measured (units)? http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Power_
3.. Please research this : history of energy consumption in the US, on google, find a graph that shows the sources of energy we have used throughout the years. (there are several websites with graphs available)
Look at the graph and read through the webpage, then be able to give a brief description of the history of energy consumption of the US 
NEXT HOMEWORK
1. http://www.huffingtonpost.com/christopher-f-jones/keystone-pipeline_b_1370787.html
2. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Keystone_Pipeline

Please read through the above websites, for the second website, you can skip down to environmental impacts and just read that if you don't want to read the whole thing.
Then answer the following questions on paper I SEE THIS AS A POSSIBLE FREE RESPONSE!!!!!!!!!
1. What are the Canadian Oil Sands?
2. What is the purpose of the Keystone Pipeline?
3. What are the benefits of building the Keystone Pipeline?
4. What are the disadvantages of the pipeline, give at least 3, and be sure that two of the three are environmental
5. What is your opinion about the pipeline.......agree or disagree with the construction of the pipeline and give at least three supporting facts for your opinion.
6. Now go to the following website:
http://www.energyquest.ca.gov/story/chapter08.html click on oil, then click on coal, then click on natural gas (update, this link doesn't seem to work) Google the following topics instead
Read through this website and briefly describe the formation of coal, oil, and natural gas. http://www.hk-phy.org/energy/power/source_phy/flash/formation_e.html this site is good, use it instead

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Hi Students here is some more stuff for you to work on to prepare for the AP test, we are definitely layering and multitasking which is okay since the AP test does the same, SOOOO here we go!!!!
#1  do you know at least 3 advantages and 3 disadvantages of GMO's????? write them down now without looking it up (mandatory) 
#2 read ch 15 (it's short) it's all about mining..... Describe the rock cycle (mandatory) be sure you know all of the definitions of the bold words on page 345 (in the context of the reading)
# 3 next please read and do and learn and know the following: memorize the following info
1. Read through the attached power points for chapter 15, 16 and 17, You should know the following info for these chapters -the rock cycle (sedimentary, igneous, metamorphic) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ore Read this and know what an ore is and the economics behind extracting a metal from the earth -the US, Canada, Russia, South Africa and Australia have most of the worlds minerals -Some "strategic" minerals are manganese, cobalt, chromium, and platinum...used for economic and military
-US doesn't possess these strategic minerals so we must rely on former Soviet Union, S Africa, and other not so politically stable countries (Zambia, Democratic Republic of Congo)
-read about mineral and rock formation in your book pages 340-343 -Also read about how minerals are extracted pg 345 know surface mining, overburden, spoils, open-pit mining, strip mining, mountain top removal is especially important, then there's subsurface mining too.
-know the impacts of mining on the environment (ex AMD, Habitat destruction) -Smelting----removing the metal from its ore uses heat and chemicals like cyanide....especially in gold mining see power point ch 15.
-look at diagram page 352....it's called co-generation....using the waste of one process to fuel another process.....see the diagram....this is efficient!
-know the laws related to mining, and how to restore mined land....see the last few slides of the ch 15 power point for that info.
-For ch 16 power point...in addition to what we have already learned about coal/oil/nat gas.... also know the environmental advantages and disadvantages of each... (oil spills, CO2 emissions, Methane emissions, acid rain, habitat destruction etc)
-be sure to know what synfuels are (google "synfuels")
Okay now you will do the following free responses from the year 2005 do #3 and #4 -Now read thru the section from ch 16 power point on Nuclear Energy. -nuclear fission is splitting of atoms, usually Uranium 238 or 235.
-Check out the diagram of how the nuclear power plant works. You actually have to know the basics of it (reactor cores, control rods, containment facility, heat exchanger, turbine, generator, water source cools reactor) Remember-----fission creates heat....which is used to boil water....which creates steam, which is used to turn a turbine, and generate electricity
-check out the advantages and disadvantages of using nukes for energy page 376 diagram
-know the diff between high level radioactive waste and low level.....see case study p 379. -google "nuclear reactor types" what did you find?
-check out how radiation effects human health on the power point
-check out Chernobyl on the power point :( -what shall we do with radio waste.....find out from the power point (Yucca Mountain)
-Nuclear fusion.....fusing two H nuclei to form He.....this is the reaction of the sun, haven't yet been able to achieved sustained temperatures close to that of the sun here on earth...so fusion still ain't happenin quite yet, but if it was, it would be fab, because there's not so much radio waste as in fission Now do three more Free Responses 2004 #2 and #3 and 1998 # 2 (you should have done this one already) See 4/14 for 1998 released testexpand description

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HI this is just an announcement, see additional post for hw
We will begin study sessions next week after school, Periods 2,3 your sessions will be Monday and Tuesday, periods 4,5, and 6 your study sessions will be Wednesday and Thursday, you can come to one or both, each session will last until 4. The session will consist of doing released questions as well as the review sheets I have posted, please bring a copy of EACH review worksheet with you to class, have them completed so that we can correct them. Also, do all of the multiple choice questions from the practice test I posted a few weeks ago, as well as the completed 1998 test, we will have a Q and A based on these questions. See you then!

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For those of you who would like to go on in the content, here is what we will be doing next. This is all about FOOD. Very important, this will be due at the end of the week.
 
#1) Ch 13 FOOD  please start by reading pages 270-280 then respond to the following questions, 
1. what are some important human nutritional requirements
2. what are some disorders that result if we don't get enough nutrients?
3. what are some different types of agriculture, give a description as well?
4. how does the worlds soy consumption affect the "Cerrado" in South America? 5. what are the three main crops that feed the planet?
6. describe a few aspects of Industrialized Agriculture
7. what is the "Green Revolution"?

#2) Next, please read up to page 286 in ch 13, then answer the following questions
1. What's soil erosion and what causes it?
2. Why is soil erosion such a big concern?
3. What is desertification and what causes it?
4. What is salinization and what causes it?
5. What are at least three methods for preventing soil erosion?
6. What are GMO's.......look it up on Google, make a t-chart and give at least three advantages and three disadvantages of GMO's Please see the attached power point   PS, you can use the power point to help answer the homework questions

#3) Please read the rest of CH 13. then do the following:
1 Go to the website http://rainforests.mongabay.com/0811.htm this website can also be found in the "links" section. Read through the website, then give a general explanation of how agriculture goes down in the rain forest....give a sort of chronological idea of how the land is used starting with a tropical forest all the way to when it becomes a sort of wasted shrubland. Also, discuss how soy bean crops are affecting South America......this should end up to be about a paragraph of info you write down.
2. Now discuss what is happening with palm oil, tell where, why, what, and who is affected by this.
3. Now research "sustainable agriculture" on your own.....(google it) then find out some different methods of sustainable agriculture. Write up a discussion explaining what sustainable agriculture is and describe some of the methods you found out about in your research. Then tell why sustainable agriculture is important for the planet. Remember give information as if you were responding to an Free response, and you wanted to get a 10!

#4)  revisit pages 294-301, this reading is all about pesticides. When you have re-read the information, please answer the following questions:
1. What are the major differences between first and second generation pesticides?
2. What are some costs and some benefits of using pesticides (give two for each) can be environmental, economic or health
3. What did the lovely Rachel Carson do for humanity?
4. What are the characteristics of the ideal pesticide?
5. What comes around goes around-what does this mean in regards to DDT?
6. What is FIFRA?
7. What are some "other ways to control pests"?
8. What's IPM and how does it work?
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Hi students, because I have to present both sides of the controversial issue of whether or not we should be eating GM foods, here are the alleged benefits or pro's of GM foods, I personally think that GMO's are not a good idea because we don't know the long term effects but anyway here are some benefits PLEASE READ:IMPORTANT STUFF FOR YOU TO KNOW ABOUT GMO's RIGHT HERE!!!
Please read this and know at least 2 advantages of GM crops 
Advantages (Pros) of Genetically Modified (GM) Foods: 
-Saves the use of toxic chemicals. GM crops can be made resistant to pests, so pesticides do not need to be sprayed on them. This is also better on the environment! 
-Prevents wasted crops. If pests cannot eat the crops, nothing goes to waste. Therefore, farmers make more money! 
-It could potentially solve hunger. Many people agree that there is not enough food in the world to feed everybody. As genetically modified foods increase the yields of crops, more food is produced by farmers. Of course, others argue that there is enough food to feed everyone, but it is unequally distributed. Others argue the GM crops do not produce higher yields. 
-We can begin to grow foods in different conditions. For instance, strawberries can be genetically engineered to grow in frosts. Other foods that grow in cold climates could be engineered to grow in hot climates (such as Africa where much of the continent does not have enough food). 
-Some foods can be genetically modified to contain higher amounts of important vitamins and minerals. Vitamin A deficiencies cause blindness. In Africa, 500,000 go blind each year. If rice can be modified to contain more vitamin A, the amount of people going blind will decrease. 
-As more research is done the technology is bound to improve. Scientists are already considering genetic modification to make fish, nuts and plants grow faster. 
-Despite these advantages, many people refuse to eat genetically modified foods over concerns that it could be dangerous to their health. There is still no detailed study about the long term effects of eating genetically modified foods. There are also issues such as whether scientists should play God and whether biotechnology companies (the people that made the GM seeds) should have control over food supply (they could choose not to sell the seeds to certain people or countries).

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So  for tonight's hw please read the rest of ch 21. Some of the reading is about sewage treatment, just go over that again, also be sure to read about septic systems and how they work. One thing you should know for the AP test is the fact that when oil spills happen in the ocean, CRUDE OIL is more biodegradable than refined oil, be sure you know that. Also, be familiar with the hypoxia situation in the Gulf of Mexico. Pay special attention to the case study on page 515 about protecting watersheds instead of building water purification plants. 
summarize that case study in one paragraph. Next watch the attached video, on the story of bottled water....summarize that in one paragraph and then tell whether or not this video clip will make an impact on your actions and why or why not?
http://storyofstuff.org/movies/story-of-bottled-water/
or you can google "The story of bottled water"
Here's a list of what to study for the open note/practice test on Ch 21 next week...... (this test will not be graded)
1. water treatment, primary, secondary, and advanced, what occurs in each phase
2. know the meaning of and the effects of: fecal coliform nitrates, phosphates, acidity, turbidity, hardness, dissolved oxygen, salinity, COD/BOD
3. point vs non point sources of pollution and effects
4.Eutrophication/cultural eutrophication
5. Clean Water Act
6. How acidic water affects aquatic life
7. Oxygen SAG curve
8. ecosystem functions of wetlands/estuaries
9. Mitigation
10. AMD
11. Endocrine disruptors
12. Common methods of cleaning up oil spills
TAKE THE PRACTICE TEST BELOW!!!!

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Study Guide for GLOBAL WATER RESOURCES TEST use Chapter 14 as a reference. THIS STUDY GUIDE WILL BE COLLECTED,but test will not be worth points
-Explain the reasons for building the Three Gorges Dam, and what are some of the negative impacts of the dam? 
-Explain how urbanization impacts water recharge zones 
-What are the top methods for reducing waste in agricultural irrigation? 
-What are some economic benefits of dams, and general advantages and disadvantages of dams? 
-What are some characteristics of floodplains? 
-What is the % of freshwater on the planet and how much of that water is tied up in Glaciers and ice caps 
-What can happen in agricultural coastal areas if ground water is overdrawn? 
-Explain the complete process of eutrophication, also known as Cultural eutrophication 
-How does deforestation impact streams.....think of three ways 
-What are the top three domestic uses of water in the US? 
-What are some important functions of wetlands? 
-How do levees and cement canals influence sediment build up in a river delta? 
-How does the "privatization" of water influence groundwater depletion? 
-What is the percentage of water used for water globally in terms of industry/agriculture/domestic use 
-Explain the Aral Sea disaster 
-Explain the Colorado River situation
-What is the difference between overdraft, water table, subsidence, saltwater intrusion, and aquifer?
-Be familiar with global water distribution in terms of areas of the world that have more water and areas that have less water, just very generally, stuff that I have taught you.
-Be familiar with the Mississippi River water shed, and where it drains into

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Greetings, as you know we will be entering into the subject of Water Pollution, a very important topic to this class. Please begin by re-reading the first 10 pages of chapter 21, AND then please read through the following website on water pollution http://www.waterbenefitshealth.com/types-of-water-pollution.html (read about each of the 7 seven types of pollution described) next do the following:
1. Looking at the chart on page 495, and looking at the types of pollution on the website, what is missing from the chart in your book that is discussed in the website (two things)
2. What is missing from the website that is discussed on the chart in your book (one thing)
3. As you look at the chart in your book, read about each type of pollutant and then look at the examples and then look at the major sources of each. MEMORIZE THIS. Now, list each type of pollutant (from the chart, 7 of them) and then without looking at your chart/book give and example of each.....
4. Now list the types of pollutants again, from the chart...you can look. Now without looking, list a source of each of these types of pollution,
5.What is fecal coliform and what does it's presence in the water indicate?
6. Looking at figure 21-3, what would be considered a "good" level for dissolved oxygen? What would be considered a DO level in which the water is heavily polluted?
7. Look at the figure 21-4 on page 497. How would you describe the difference between BOD and DO?
8. Describe the Cuyahoga river conundrum and explain how it ended up helping clean up Americas water ways.
9. Contrast river/ stream pollution in developed countries vs river pollution in developing countries
NEXT 
Do a little research on the Clean Water Act, summarize it and tell what it does for the United states. Then find one other act or piece of legislation that deals with water (any thing having to do with water) then summarize that law and tell why it is important
Then read the next 5 pages of ch. 21 and summarize the following three things 
 
1. pollution in the great lakes
2. Ocean pollution and clean up
3. The Chesapeake bay situation.
Now, I am attaching a free response....please answer the questions on the this free response as if you were taking it in class.....this will be corrected so accuracy counts! 
*you can use your book (Ch. 21) or the Internet to help you with this Free Response

 

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Hi! just a reminder, be sure you have finished all homework (I did it too!) and bring your ap booklet (student pack) with you on Monday so we can fill out our answer sheets. Try to NOT be absent from now until the AP test, it is vital that you come to class everyday :) Also, please bring your book everyday from now until the test. I have been doing all of the assigned reading too, and I have a renewed appreciation for READING the TEXT. It is so relevant as well, when I go on yahoo and read news stories, I am like "wow, I just read that in our text book" that seriously happened about 5 times just this past week!

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Hey everyone, I am adding one more quick bit of HW, watch until the end, write down something you learned from the beginning, middle, and end of the video clip
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LrawDNmTVT4 I hope that this video makes a bit of impression on those of you who are still using plastic water bottles :)

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HI Guys! Some misc info: The IPCC is the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. This organization is a branch of the United Nations. They have recently released their new/present findings on Climate change. There are three parts to their report: 1) outlines the physical evidence supporting the idea that humans are causing climate change (CO2 levels increasing, Global temp increase, melting of ice caps, ice core samples etc) 2) outlines the effects of climate change on natural and human systems, the effects of sea level rise, food production, disease transmission, severity of storms, and damage from storms etc. 3) outlines proposals for taking action to reduce GHG emissions. Possible ideas would be cap and trade for CO2 emissions, changing the way we raise livestock, etc. The US must be on board for taking action or the plans for reduction will not be effective. We as a country, were not on board with the Kyoto protocol, therefore it was an ineffective way to reduce emissions. We are the highest per capita producers of carbon dioxide in the world. Now China is the highest emitter collectively.
Now for your homework:
1.Read the following article describe the process
 
2. please watch the following 5 minute video on using cow dung to generate electricity and heat using an anaerobic methane digester. 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W5vV_K4533A describe the process
 
3.Next please do the free response on the methane digester 2009 #2 only.....do it with out looking up the answers first, then in a different color pen, go back and make corrections, you must do this do get points. Be honest about it
see below for the question 2009 #2 
 

#2, 2009. Anaerobic methane digesters have been used for many years to reduce energy costs on farms throughout Europe and on some large farms in the United States. The digesters operate by using anaerobic bacteria to break downanimal waste. During the process, which typically uses a tank heated to about 100°F (38 C) to speed the reactions, raw manure is broken down and methane is produced. The methane can then be used to generate electricity or produce heat.

 

For a certain dairy farm with 500 cows, the cost of installing a digester is approximately $400,000. Assume that the farm uses 800,000 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity each year at a cost of $0.10 per kWh. The waste from

a single cow can produce 3.0 kWh of electricity each day.

(a) Describe the steps by which methane produced in the digester can be used to generate electricity.

(b) Discuss TWO environmental benefits that may result from the installation of an anaerobic methane digester.

(c) Assuming that the cost of electricity remains constant and the farmer starts using the manure from the cows in an anaerobic digester to produce electricity on the farm, calculate:

(i) The number of kWh of electricity that can be produced in one year

(ii) The amount of money the farmer can save in one year, NOT counting the installation cost of thedigester. (You may round your answer to the nearest $1,000.)

(iii) The amount of time, in years, that it will take to recover the cost of installing an anaerobic digester on the farm. (You may round your answer to the nearest whole number of years.)

(d) Calculate the minimum number of cows the farm would need to produce 800,000 kWh of electricity per year.


5. Next please read the first 10 pages of Ch 21.

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HI! even though you don't have school, I am going to have you do homework some of the days you are on spring break, all of it will be due when you come back to school:)  please write up a paragraph that outlines some specific methods or solutions for wasting LESS water. Discuss water pricing for reducing water use and methods for reducing water in irrigation. This info can be found in pages 324-326. Next, in a couple of sentences explain how deforestation affects flooding (page 330). Read the case study on Bangladesh (page 331) Summarize the situation in a short paragraph
Carefully watch and learn from the following three videos, It's going to be a total of 6 parts, if you want to jump ahead and watch all 6 parts feel free. 
It's called Cadillac Desert : An American Nile......excellent video, you will want to take notes so you can study them. 
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mis-CU9oZO0 Part 1 An American Nile
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uCsuLbjkX8Q Part 2 An American Nile
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JbdtiqO_3Mc Part 3 An American Nile

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Hi Guys, the Salton Sea (an ecological enigma) is absolutely amazing in so many ways. This Sea is often mentioned on the AP test because of it's connection to the Colorado River and agriculture, and as it's importance as a migratory stop for Birdies. Please watch the following short video and respond to the questions below. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BKsK13NDkpg
1. describe the formation of the Salton sea and include the historical information about it, going back to Lake Cahuilla.
2. What keeps it going to this day?
3. What is endangering the sea?
Next please click on this link and read about California's water issues  http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/California_Water_Wars
please go the above article on wikipedia, read the article the answer the following questions: ( by the way, be sure to peruse the whole article)
1. Discuss how water was acquired by Eaton and Mulholland for the city of LA.
2. What does Mono Lake have to do with any of this?
Next please check out the following website and pick one other "water project" that is described in this website (other than the Owen's Valley) and explain/summarize it in about one short paragraph..... the water projects can be found under the tab "water topics" ----dams, reservoirs, and water projects
http://www.aquafornia.com/index.php/where-does-southern-californias-water-come-from/
Walnut.......where does your water come from? NOW YA KNOW!
 
 
 
 

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Please read pages 310-315 and then answer the following questions.   
Questions: 
1. What, according to the UN, is the biggest threat to the world's water supply? (310) 
2. What is the direct quote by the leader of the study about oil/water? (310) 
3. read the case study on page 312.....what happened in Bolivia? 
4. Describe some benefits and some disadvantages of water privatization (312) 
5. Since there seems to be a global water crisis, what our some options for getting more fresh water? 312 
6. what do you think is the greatest disadvantage to withdrawing groundwater? (table page 313) and why 
7. what's land "subsidence" and more specifically what is a sink hole? 
8. What is a "saltwater intrusion"

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please read pages 316-322 and answer the following questions. 
1. give two advantages of dams and two disadvantages of dams (317) 
2. how is a dam used to generate electricity......explain the process (see diagram page 317) 
3. Explain some of the uses of the Colorado river (318) 
4. how are coastal deltas affected by damming the Colorado river? (319) 
5. In a few sentences, describe the Aral sea disaster (321) 
6. Please give 2 advantages of the Three Gorges Dam, and the describe some of the issues brought about by the building of the dam. (319)

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Greetings:) 
I would like you to read pages 305-310. Please answer the following questions
1. explain (from reading on page 306) how water is distributed throughout the earth, and describe the three main ways we degrade our earths water 
2. Explain (page 307) what "groundwater" is and then explain what an "aquifer" is. 
3. What are some places in the world that have nonrenewable aquifers, and what is the analogy your book uses for us to overdraw these aquifers? (307) 
4. Differentiate between surface water, surface runoff, and a watershed or drainage basin. 
5. Agree or disagree with this statement and explain your self "if we withdraw large amounts of groundwater, it won't matter because there is plenty of surface water available for us" 
6. Now differentiate between consumptive and nonconsumptive water use and answer this: would agricultural use of water be consumpive or nonconsumptive and would a power plant using some ocean water to cool its generators be consumptive or nonconsumptive? 308-309 
7. Compare the eastern US with the Western US in terms of how water is distributed and how it is used. 309-310 
8. Now back to the case study chapter opener, in a nice 3-4 or so sentence paragraph, enlighten me about this conflict taking place in the middle east.

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DID YOU SEE THE MATH REVIEW I PUT UP???? IF YOUR MATH IS NOT THAT STRONG, IT SHOULD HELP LOTS!! (to find this and the review sheets below you can click on my name or APES on the website)
 
SEE THOSE REVIEW WORKSHEETS THAT WERE POSTED (THERE'S FIVE OF THEM) Those will really really really help on the AP test (and on your final)
 
CRASH COURSE FOR APES!!!! I HAVE HEARD ITS'S A GOOD ONE :)

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Hey Guys, just a few reminders for the Field trip......
****Don't forget to sign the additional student waiver. I will give you the waiver on FRIDAY, if you don't sign and bring this form YOU CAN'T GO IN THE OUTRIGGER CANOE
1) There is no food available there, so bring food from home and plenty of water
2) your feet may get a little wet when we get into the canoes, so perhaps bring some land shoes and some water shoes (for example flip flops)
3) if you don't want to get sunburned, bring a hat and longsleeve shirt
4) periods 2 and 3 are going on Wednesday  4/1 and periods 4 and 5 are going on Thursday April 2nd, and period 6 is going Friday 4/3 and of course there are some students who have switched days and you know who you are :)
5) meet in our classroom (C-7) at 8:20 in the am, we will be back here by 2:45 pm
6) if you have any questions email me [email protected]
7) chaperones meet in student parking lot or my class room at 8:20 ish
see additional post for this weekends homework.
remember to scroll all you non-scrollers!

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SPECIAL NOTE: PLEASE BRING YOUR BOOK ON APRIL 1st, 2nd and 3rd....it is mandatory, you will lose more than 20 points if you do not have your book these days. (no need to bring it the day of the field trip though)
 
Hi Students, for the homework, please read through the attached power point, on Chapter 11. This chapter takes a look at some of the specific animals that are endangered/threatened on our planet. Basically this chapter is addressing "the species approach" to saving endangered animals. I will attempt to provide you with some questions that will address specific things you should know.
1. pick two animals from slides 8 and/or 9. Google the animal and find out what caused or lead to it's current state of endangerment. (the ap test expects you to know specific causes of endangerment for specific animals)
2. look at slide 10, why do you think having a "fixed migratory pattern" could make an animal more susceptible to becoming endangered?
3. Same slide, why do you think having a "large range" could make an animal more susceptible to becoming endangered?
4. Based on the chart on slide 14, what human practice is creating the most extinct/endangered species?
5. Looking at slide 20, differentiate between "basic causes" and "secondary causes" of endangerment of animals. In other words, what is this chart trying to tell us???
6. Taking a look at slides 21-25, what part of hippo are these slides illustrating?
7. Take a look at the slides on invasives, well we have discussed invasive in good detail, but you should know several examples, choose two and google them. Briefly tell their story.
8. Describe 2 ways you can prevent the spread of invasive species. See slide 39
9. Slide 40, list two characteristics of invasive species that might make them more successful in their new environment.
10. Describe and name the process that is taking place in slide 43
11. Looking at slide 45 and 46 :(  What is the bush meat trade?
12. Slides 47 and 48, what is the primary difference between these two pieces of legislation? (both will be on ap test)
13. Read through the rest of the slides, and pay attention to what you are reading. And lastly, describe reconciliation ecology

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Hi Students, heads up!! As soon as we finish the nearpod presentation we will take ch 9 test on human population (see previous post for what will be on the test) I am debating the idea of NOT making this one worth points, however it is a big part of the AP test. So study hard for this test, but it won't count for points, we will correct it ourselves :)

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Hi Students, just a couple of reminders
1. Elaborate
2.On a free response test, don't ever say, "it will harm the environment" that is merely restating the obvious :) unless of course you elaborate!
 
Okay, for tonights homework, the first thing I would like you to do is do a bit of research. Find one disease (avoid just researching "diarrhea" it's not really a disease per se)  that is affected by human population growth. In other words, as population increases, the disease also increases within the population. You can use Wikipedia if you like. For that disease, find out what causes it, how it is spread, what the symptoms are, where is it prevalent, and what is being done to try to eradicate it. Also discuss how population density impacts this disease. You can use a disease that is currently prevalent in the population or you can discuss a disease from past times, that is now under control in the human population. 
Here's a website with some ideas and explanations: http://dieoff.org/page165.htm
I would say one half to three quarters of a page is needed to sum up all the info. 

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Hola! For this weekends homework, please do the attached free response on human population from 2008 #4 (only do # 4).  Next please watch the following video on human population, and respond to the following questions: GUYS, this is a vitally important assignment for success on the AP test!!!! BE READY TO DISCUSS!!!!! (please :) If I should happen to call on you and you haven't a clue about the video, be prepared to lose points.
(Tough Love people)
questions:
1. Describe a few of the issues discussed in the program relating to water/population pressures.
2. Describe global issues related to population and agriculture, include information about the green revolution and its impacts on humanity in India and Mexico
3. How are richer nations ensuring their food supply?
4. What is happening in Rwanda now?
5. What does oil do for agriculture, and how does this make oil a "double edged sword"?
6. How many people can the planet sustain if everyone consumed as the average Indian person? How about if everyone consumed as the average American?
7.How does the forest affect the water cycle in Mexico city?
8. What is the most important thing you learned from this video?
 
 
 
 
 
 

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Hello students! please finish reading ch 9.

Then, please respond to the following questions based on your reading of Ch 9
1.From the info discussed on page 176 describe one economic factor that affects the TFR of people in developed countries
2. How does urbanization affect the TFR in both developed and developing countries?
3. How does TFR change with access to education?
4. What has had more of an effect on the worlds population growth CBR or CDR, Explain?
5. In reference to Q 4 what do you think is the single most important factor that has decreased CDR worldwide, defend your answer.
6.What are the two most useful indicators of the health of a country and why is this so?

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Hi Students, the following is a list of concepts you will need to know for Ch. 9 test which will be next week so here are some guidelines for what to study
-please know how to do growth rate problems, know the formula for calculating growth rate
-know the different age structure graphs
-know how to calculate a problem in which you have to tell how many people are added to a country in a year if population and growth rate are given
-know the stages of demographic transition and know whether or not birth rates and death rates are high or low in each phase
-know the general definition of replacement level fertility and what the actual number is globally and why it's slightly higher than 2
-know the general population of the US and of the World
-know how to use scientific notation to solve basic math problems with lots of zeros
-know how population growth varies between developed and developing countries
-know the definition of population momentum, 
-know what infant mortality rate is and know what life expectancy is
-know what urbanization is and know how TFR changes as urbanization takes place
-read about population issues related specifically to the US, I will not really be covering this in class, so read about it in your book and look at that section of the power point that was attached for ch. 9 power point (see attachments) 
-know the top three most populous countries
-know how to do doubling time problems, the rule of 70
-know the steps for solving a problem in which you are asked to calculate population in future years
-know which cultural factors bring down total fertility rate within a society

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       Hi students please study the attachment below to learn about laws/acts that apply to wetlands/aquatic ecosystems, short quiz on Friday

See other posts for additional homework.  

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Hi Students, I was  introduced to a new review book, A crash course for APES or something like that. As I read through it, I honestly thought it looks really good, so I am going to officially recommend this as a review book. I have heard that is cost $12 through amazon.com. See me with any questions.
 

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Hello Students! postpone this until second block day
Upon doing the reading (first 10 pages of ch. 9) Please answer the following questions :)
1) From the reading of chapter 9 chapter opener page 171....What is one "fact" that has already changed pretty dramatically since our text was written in 2006?
2) From the reading page 172-Contrast population growth rates of developed nations with growth rates of developing nations....give one explanation for this contrast.
3) Was Thomas Malthus right or wrong....explain.
4) What, in your opinion, is the Earth's carrying capacity-----EXPLAIN.
5) What do you think would be the OPTIMUM population of people on the planet....explain
6) What's CBR (crude birth rate) and CDR (crude death rate)
7) Why is Africa's CBR so high while Europe's CBR so low?
8) What is the Earth's third most populated country?
9) What is the difference between replacement level fertility and total fertility rate, and which one of these would have to be achieved globally to reduce human population growth?
10) Name 3 ways (according to your textbook reading) that the US has changed since 1905

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HI Extra Credit people, here are a few important announcements for you:
1. Each group must show me their data table this week and get it approved to continue the experiment. Failure to do so will result in a loss of 10 points from this project, I will remind you one time, if you still do not get your data table approved, you will be excused from the project.
2. GROUP 3: YOU ARE IN CHARGE OF CONTROL DATA COLLECTION THIS WEEK (data table is taped to door)
3. Each week ALLL group members must be present for gathering data through the various tests. If you fail to help your group, you will be excused from the project
4. You must water (or switch to drought resistant plants) and weed your space weekly or points will be deducted
 

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Reminder: read all announcements and also, test on block day does have several questions regarding sewer science so be sure to study primary and secondary and tertiary or advanced treatment.

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Hi Guys! Well you have a 34 question test on Monday. Up to this point you should have:
1. Read through your notes
2. Looked at the power points attached for chapters 7 and 8
3. Done the study guides for ch 7 and ch 8 
4. Done all of your homework and reading......lots of test questions will be from your homework
To help you out a bit more, formulate any questions you have so we can have a Q and A based review session before the test
Also.......a bit more info about the test
-know the fugure 8-3 on page 163
-there will be a few questions on wetlands/estuaries/dams
-one question on species diversity on Islands
-one question on species richness vs species evenness
-one question on characteristics that tend to make an animal more prone to becoming endangered
-a few questions on K selected vs r selected species
-a few questions on parasitism, mutualism, etc
-a question or two on mimicry, camouflage etc
-a few questions on survivorship curves
-a question on primary vs secondary succession
-a question on indicator species. 
-THERE WILL ALSO BE SEVERAL QUESTIONS ON SEWER SCIENCE
GOOD LUCK, come to class with clarifying questions

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Reminders :)
1. please bring p-slip and $$ for field trip on Monday, exact change only
2. test will be on first block day I have you
3. bring all hw. and biogeochemical cycles write-up

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HI For tonight's homework please read chapter 7 and then respond to the following questions.
1. As you read about species diversity on page 145, there are two things that define species diversity, what are those two things?
2. Take a look at the picture I have attached on species evenness and species richness . Which picture, the left or right, shows more diversity and why? Describe the species evenness and richness in BOTH pictures
3. please be sure you understand the differences between a native species, a non-native species, an invasive species, and an alien species and know some specific examples of non-natives that have done harm to the ecosystem they were introduced into.
4. Read the section on Species diversity on Islands page 146. What are the two factors that determine species diversity on an Island?
5. What is an indicator species? What are some characteristics of amphibians that make them good indicator species?
6. We should already know what keystone species are.....be sure to know some specific examples from the reading
7. Read the why we should protect sharks. (page 149).....now tell me....why should we protect sharks?
8. How is an elephant an example of a foundation species?
9. Please understand what interspecific competition, intraspecific competition, predation, parasitism, mutualism, and commensalism are
10. Read the section on page 152 about how prey defend against or avoid predators......should be review......know this info
11. Read through the sections on page 156 and 157 on primary vs secondary succession, again should be review from biology. What are two primary differences between primary and secondary succession.
12. Read the sections on ecological stability and sustainability, pages 158 and 159, please explain what inertia (persistence), constancy, and resilience are. . 13. Please read through both ch. 7 and ch 8 power points tonight and tomorrow night incase you haven't yet done so expand description
 

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Hi guys!  please take a look at your homework from Tuesday (Questions 1-14 from Chapter 8 reading pages 161-170) I am attaching the answers to those questions and your job is to CORRECT your homework, I would like you to use a different color pen and add on info if needed. Please be sure you have read about and understand these concepts from questions 1-14. I will need to see evidence of correction for you to get credit.

Next, be sure you have read the entire chapter 8 and then respond to the following questions:
1. What is population density?
2. Compare/contrast density dependent limiting factors with density independent limiting factors and give two examples of each.
3. Species use different reproductive patterns to ensure their survival we call these strategies r-selected and k-selected. How do r-selected species ensure the survival of their offspring?
4. What are some characteristics of K-selected species.
5. What is a survivorship curve? give two examples of organisms that are late loss, consistent loss, and early loss.
6. Read the blurb on page 166 figure 8-7. What is top down population control and bottom up population control?

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THIS IS FOR EXTRA CREDIT STUDENTS: Guys, we need to have our plots finished by open house (Thursday) so get those plants in and get those rock rivers done. I will give each group until Friday to finish, and then points will be deducted for every day your plot is not complete. Also, I had to water several plants on Wed. So if you see your plant wilting, either water it or replace it with a plant that does not need to be watered. Please begin weeding your plots as well :)

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Hi guys, homework *
1. give this video a watch: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G3KCThs4XQU
3.make sure you know the fishing techniques!! trawling, trolling, gill net, purse seine, dredging, jigging, long lining, harpooning, fishing pole fishing. (Check out previous link/post)
4.  I am attaching power points for chapters 7 and 8, take a look. I will be putting up study guides as well. Please be advised that you will need to keep up with the learning in these two chapters on your own, we will not have much time in class to cover the material, but you are still responsible for it.

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Hi Guys, for tonights homework please read pages 161-170, then answer the following questions. 
1. Explain how sea otters are a keystone species
2. What is population ecology
3. What are the three main ways populations are distributed in nature?
4. Can you give an example for each distribution pattern please.
5. What's the formula for population change?
6. What is biotic potential?
7. Who has a greater biotic potential, a fly or an elephant, and give the characteristics of each organism, that make it's biotic potential high or low
8. What prevents a species or population with a high (r) from overtaking the world?
9. When environmental pressures push down on a population and prevent it from taking over the world, what do we call this according to your book?
10. By the way, can you give some real life examples of environmental pressures that would prevent a population from taking over the world?
11. Together, two factors determine the carrying capacity of a habitat, what are those two factors?
12. What is exponential growth as it relates to populations?
13. What is logistic growth?
14. What is a population "dieback" and how could something like this happen in nature?

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please read pages 316-322 and answer the following questions. 
1. give two advantages of dams and two disadvantages of dams (317) 
2. how is a dam used to generate electricity......explain the process (see diagram page 317) 
3. Explain some of the uses of the Colorado river (318) 
4. how are coastal deltas affected by damming the Colorado river? (319) 
5. In a few sentences, describe the Aral sea disaster (321) 
6. Please give 2 advantages of the Three Gorges Dam, and the describe some of the issues brought about by the building of the dam. (319)

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Hi students, chapter 6 test on aquatic ecosystems is on Monday.
Extra Credit students: bring your rocks for the rock garden, just regular old rocks about 10 cm by 10 cm, not too round, just plain old rocks.
here's some pics of rock rivers
also ALL students, please click on the link below and check out these fishing practices, the link on the power point does not work.

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Hi Folks! First of all I would like to say that the posters and presentations have far exceeded my expectations, they are really good!!!
Second, your homework tonight is to finish all questions from the study guide,no I won't be collecting it, but yes if I call on you and you are clueless about the info, you will lose points.
Third, the test for ch. 6 will be next week on Monday
Forth, there will be a sewer science quiz tomorrow, yes you may use your booklet, but NO YOU MAY NOT GO TO YOUR LOCKER TO GET IT OR USE SOMEONE ELSES BOOKLET: NO EXCEPTIONS
***This test will be a timed test, so I would definitely study for it tonight!
 
 
 
 
 

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Hi students, this homework will take some time so start early and do a thorough job. REMINDER: AP CHECKS/ORDER FORMS DUE MONDAY 3/2
First do the two free responses attached below (both are on one attachment one is on sewer science and the other is about the Gulf of Mexico)
next watch the video clip below and answer the following questions.based on the info from the video....not some random answer
1. Subsidence-what does it lead to?
2. How do wetlands build up through sediment deposition?
3. What is the thermal expansion of the ocean?
4. How do dams affect sediment deposition in a river delta?
5. How does global warming lead to an increase in sediment deposition?
6. What is a salt water intrusion?
 
 

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HI students for tonight's homework please print out the study guide for chapter 6 (attached a few days ago) go ahead and answer the answerable questions for #1-20 on the study guide.
Next please click on the link below and listen to the  entire sound bite (4 minutes), then summarize it in a fat paragraph. Then.....make an argument for saving the Delta Smelt

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Here are a few reminders/announcements, THIS IS NOT THE HOMEWORK, homework is in another post. SCROLL :)
-Poster/presentation for biogeochemical cycles lab is due Friday, no time will be given in class to work on it. Presentation can be 3-5 minutes long
-Check the white board in the classroom for the control data (graphs) so that you have something to compare your results to.
-EXTRACREDIT Peeps well yesterday you guys planted an amazing native plant garden!!!!! However.....wow you left a huge mess and quite honestly it was inexcusable. So from now on if you do not clean up the plastic bags/dirt/trash etc. You will be asked to excuse yourself from this project. I spent over an hour cleaning up dirt/water/trash, this is your project and I was doing all the cleaning up.......no more :Also, I decided that we will do the chemical tests only every other week instead of once a week (all other tests will be once per week still)

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Homework is to be sure to read all of Chapter 6 and read through each slide of the power point for Chapter 6 and work on (I will not collect) attached study guide,
Please learn/read through the remaining slides on ch. 6 power point, we will not have much time to cover this in class. Also, Please work on Biogeochemcial lab conclusion presentation posters and be sure to generate a proficient presentation for friday
by the way:
"Mitigation banking" is a phrase that means the following: When wetlands/estuaries are destroyed for development or agriculture or whatever, sometimes humans feel it is necessary and valid. If the wetland/estuary is protected, sometimes the company that is doing the development can make an agreement to  recreate a wetlands of equal size to that which they feel they must destroy, this way there is a "trade off", some wetlands are lost in one area, but they are then gained in another area so the overall function to the earth is not lost.
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Hi folks, here is your homework for the weekend. Enjoy your weekend, and sharpen your brain :)
UPDATE FOR EXTRA CREDIT FOLKS: I was thinking, instead of making a small sign for extra extra credit, a painted garden rock will work too. Be sure to use paint that will not come off in the rain. Here are some examples. I must approve your design first though!
 
 
 

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heads up reminder for extra credit: if you are having trouble finding native plants, please feel free to get some Texas sage and or agave and or lavender. These are all very drought resistant and not invasive. You may do your planting on Monday any time between the hours of 1;45 and 5 ish. Please bring a shovel, I will be here early so you can bring your plants in the morning if you need to. Also: any group that would like to earn an additional 10 points beyond the 50 points, may make a small creative wooden or metal sign that gives some info about the project, if you decide to do this, you must design the sign and then get it approved by me before you make it.
 
 
please go to the following websites, first read about estuaries (second link below) then go to the first link and pick one estuary of the world, and write up a two paragraph summary of that estuary, telling me a bit of interesting information about it. You can even check out the "virtual field trip" and see what type of life is found at each layer!! In this case, be sure to use your own words in every sentence you write, and add commentary as you go. Use transition sentences and give a conclusion statement. Cut and paste will not be considered for points.
http://omp.gso.uri.edu/ompweb/doee/science/descript/galry1.htm

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Hi Students, for tonight's homework, please use your book and or the internet to help you respond to the following questions. Our current homework is related to aquatic ecosystems
 
1.What are the different layers of the ocean and how does photosynthesis, and dissolved oxygen change with each layer
2. What are estuaries? and what are mangrove forests?
3. Please watch the following video on Shrimp farming in Bangledesh......then summarize, the content of the video. Then explain one thing you learned in the beginning of the video, one thing you learned from the middle, and one thing you learned at the end.......not facts but concepts. (Complete thoughts)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hPJpPEH3l7o
4. From your reading of Ch 6, what are the layers in a lake? For each layer of a lake, tell what the corresponding ocean layer would be. 
5. What is the difference between a eutrophic and an oligotrophic lake?
6. What is a watershed?
7. After reading the case study on page 140, Explain the damage that dams and levees can have on wetlands and places like New Orleans

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Hi Students, For this weekend, please read chapter 6 on Aquatic biomes...this will be a quick chapter so please do the reading to maximize your understanding of the material :)
For the homework please then do a bit of research on Coral reefs. Explain what coral reefs are. Then explain the important functionssssss of coral reefs to the planet Earth. Next describe the different waysssss that coral reefs are being threatened. Include a discussion on some of the longterm consequencesssss of the destruction of coral reefs. Now please do the following free response WITHOUT looking up the answers, then look up the answers and correct it. I need to see EVIDENCE of you correcting your responses after you attempted the question,, so quite honestly for the most part, in general, if their is no evidence of correction, I must assume you are either really smart or you just copied the answers:) PLEASE ONLY DO #2 ON CORAL REEFS (2011) Practicing free responses is a great way to prepare for the AP test!

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Hi folks, please do the attached homework on global warming. Please be genuine when completing homework

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Reminder: Extra credit meeting after school on Monday.
AGENDA:
-Report on plant donations status
-Measure and assign plots of land to each group
-Begin designing landscape (sketch to scale)
 

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Hi Students, your homework is attached....please use detail and complete thoughts and do this on your own, with only your brain to help you.

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Hi Guys, here is an updated binder list :) Due date is yet to be determined

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Scientific evidence suggests that life on earth has been present for around 4.7 billion years. The first 1 billion years was involved in chemical evolution followed by and continuing with biological evolution which has produced the variety of organisms on earth today.
a. explain the difference between biological and chemical evolution.
b. what is natural selection and how has that played a role in the evolutionary process?
c. now that climate change is upon us, there are some changes taking place in ecosystems in response to climate change. please read the following article and summarize the main idea(s) in 5-9 sentences. http://oregonstate.edu/ua/ncs/archives/2011/nov/climate-change-causing-movement-tree-species-across-west
who knew trees could move?! 

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Hi Students, here is the study guide for chapter 4 test, please go over it and come to class with questions. Also if you did not finish test corrections you will need to do that during the next 2 weeks, either after school or at lunch or during tutorial next week (no tutorial this week)
Also, EXTRA CREDIT PEOPLE, be sure to come to the Monday meeting after school with a list of native plant species that are of interest to you, as well as the size the plants grow to and the cost and where they can be purchased.
Test will most likely be on Wed/thurs the 4th or 5th.
Here is the review for the test:

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Greetings :) For tonight's homework I would like you to conduct some research on an animal that has been affected by global climate change. The only animal that is off limits is the polar bear. In your research find out such things as where the animal lives, what is it's typical range, what is the animals typical niche (remember niche and habitat are not the same thing), how is global climate change affecting this animal (be detailed here this is the main point of the assignment) what can be done to help save this animal, why should this animal be saved, and a few other interesting and relevant bits of information about this animal.
Your write up should be about 3/4th's of a page and include all of the info listed above. This should be in more of an essay format, with CD's and CM's. You must use your own words, and be sure to use transition sentences. Also please include the websites you use.

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Hi Folks, this assignment will be due on Wed for periods 5/6 and Thursday for periods 2/3/4
 
Please read all of chapter 4, from this chapter I would like you to pay special attention to the following concepts, and for each concept write one or two sentences describing what you learned about the concept from the reading. Since this should mostly be review from bio, we will have a test on this chapter next week, I will not be spending much time going over this, so study and learn this info on your own. I will review it with you. POWER POINT IS ATTACHED PLEASE TAKE A LOOK AT IT :)
1. Natural selection 
2. Evolution 
3. Mutation 
4. Adaptation 
5. Coevolution 
6. "Limits on Adaptation through Natural Selection" (page 67) 
7. How earthquakes and volcanic eruptions can lead to new species 
8. Ecological niche 
9. Fundamental niche vs realized niche 
10. Generalist species vs specialist species 
11. Speciation 
12. Geographic vs reproductive isolation 
13. Extinction-background vs mass extinction (also how many mass extinctions) 
14. Human effects on earth's biodiversity 
15. Artificial selection and genetic engineering
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hi Folks, here is the optional biogeochemical cycles homework, not due, not worth points :) But will help you get to know the cycles
Biogeochemical cycles Activity.doc not all of the websites are still working, so you can use any website/animation that you would like
also, EXTRA CREDIT PLANNING MEETING IS 1:45 on MONDAY the 26th

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Special note to read before you read the homework: For the extra credit planning meeting on Monday, only one representative from each group needs to be present :)
 
Hi Students, your homework is to go back and re-watch the animations of the cycles that I put up a few days back (sulfur, nitrogen, phosphorus, and carbon) also read through and study the last few slides (on the biogeochemical cycles) from the power point (Ch 3) be sure to know how each nutrient cycles through ecosystems AND how humans influence each cycle.AND re-read pages 70-79 in your text to further solidify your understanding of the biogeochemical cycles.

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As you may know by now, biogeochemical cycles describe the movement of certain elements through earths atmosphere, hydrosphere, biosphere, and lithosphere. Because these elements cycle through the ecosystems, they can be used over and over again by new generations of organisms. Each biogeochemical cycle has different pathways and various reservoirs or "sinks" (storehouses) where these elements may reside for days or millions of years.
 Please read through the following links AND SLIDES 81-99 from the Chapter 3 power point and then answer the questions below

http://www.epa.gov/climatestudents/basics/today/carbon-dioxide.html

https://www.classzone.com/books/ml_science_share/vis_sim/em05_pg20_nitrogen/em05_pg20_nitrogen.swf

https://www.lcmrschooldistrict.com/roth/PowerPoint_Lectures/chapter46/videos_animations/phos_anim.html

http://www.cengage.com/biology/discipline_content/animations/sulfur_cycle.html

  1.  Describe a biological process in which carbon is removed from the atmosphere and converted into organic molecules.
  2.  Describe a biological process in which carbon is converted from organic molecules to a gas and returned to the atmosphere
  3.  Explain how atmospheric carbon is incorporated into two ocean sinks
  4. Identify one terrestrial sink, other than fossil fuels, that stores carbon for thousands to millions of years
  5. The burning of fossil fuels has been shown to increase atmospheric carbon, what are TWO other HUMAN activities that increase the concentration of Carbon in the atmosphere?
  6. Identify an environmental problem that results from elevated atmospheric carbon concentrations, DISCUSS one consequence of the problem you identified.
  7. Describe one major way that the phosphorus cycle differs from the carbon cycle.
  8. Identify one reason that phosphorus is necessary for organisms.
  9. What is one way that humans influence the sulfur cycle?

 

 

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Although the soil lab is not due on the 15th here are the handouts you will need to complete it. It will be due Wed the 21st
Here is the ch 3 power point as well as the soil lab handouts
also attached is the review for the soil test (the date of test has yet to be determined, but we are looking at the end of next week)
For the soil lab write up see white board at school and:
-There will be one write up per group of four
-This lab will be typed, in order, and professional
-This lab should be a collaborative effort among EACH group member (initial all parts)
 

Soil lab.pdf

soil test review (1).docx

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Greetings Students, your homework for tonight is to finish up the "Permeability, Porosity and Particle size" lab. It better be good! Be prepared to read your poem about your lab results out loud :)

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front of soil article if you need it

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SOIL EROSION CASE STUDY" and you can use your book instead of google if you want
Greetings APES students. For tonights hw, you will need to conduct a bit of research online, go to google.com and type in either examples of soil erosion, real life examples of soil erosion, case studies of soil erosion, places that have soil erosion or something along those lines.....you get the idea right? I would like you to read about a place on this planet that has suffered from soil erosion.....a SPECIFIC place or country.....I have done some preliminary research on google, typing in the above info, and found that there are PLENTY of examples of real life situations of soil erosion. DO NOT JUST GENERALLY DEFINE EROSION, you will not get points. 

After you read about a specific place, write up a summary on your findings......tell: 
1....where it's taking place 
2....why is it happening there 
3....what are the negative impacts that are happening as a result of the erosion 
4....Now research (if the article doesn't address this) at least two methods for reducing soil erosion when doing agriculture......in other words, how can one grow food, and reduce erosion at the same time. 
Include the above info in your summary (should be at least 9 sentences)

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 HI Students!. Read pages 67-80, (the rest of chapter 3)
Now, to answer the questions, you can either google and do research or use your book as a reference, the questions are below.
1. research "how soil forms" now explain, how does soil form?
2. research Humus, not hummus :) , now explain, what is humus and why would you like your garden soil to have lots of it?
3. research "soil composition", although soil has a buncha stuff in it, what are the main components of soil?
4. research "physical properties of soil" what are some physical properties of soil?
5. research "chemical properties of soil" what are some chemical properties of soil?
6. what are the different soil types and what is the ideal soil?
 
 
Next: As you guys know, one of the main problems facing our world today relating to soil is erosion and desertification. I would like you to watch the following video, and then respond to the questions below.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w9RxnuBiFbg
1. What is soil erosion?
2. What is desertification?
3. What is causing desertification?
4. How long does it take for topsoil to form?
5. How do chemical fertilizers, plowing, deforestation and overgrazing each affect soil?
6. What can poorly managed irrigation systems lead to?
7. What countries are mentioned in the video as being affected by desertification?
8. What are some of the consequences of desertification?
9. What are some of the solutions to prevent desertification?

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Hi Students, 3 homework assignments will be due when you come back from break, I will put them in three separate entries ;)

Did you know that Termites are social insects that are essential decomposers in tropical rain forest ecosystems? Termites may account for up to 95 percent of insect biomass in tropical rain forests! Termites consume vast amounts of dead and decomposing plant material, thanks to the work of mutualistic cellulose-digesting microorganisms that inhabit their guts. In addition to their roles as important decomposers, termites digest plant materials and directly contribute to carbon dioxide and methane emissions into the atmosphere. It is likely that, like many insect species, termites and their symbionts may be sensitive to changes in their microclimate caused by global climate change, especially with regard to temperature and humidity.

LOOK AT THE TABLE BELOW it shows the rate of wood consumption of termites in mg/day/termite at different conditions of temperature and relative humidity. As you know, a warming climate can affect both temperature and relative humidity (moisture). The way you would read the chart is: For example, at 25 degrees and 70% humidity each termite eats .07 mg/day of wood. Got it?
When I save these directions, the chart is altered so just to clarify, temperature is to the far left and relative humidity is the 50%, 70% and 90% and the amount of wood eaten is shown in the middle :)

Relative Humidity
temp                   50%   70%     90%
20°C                   0.04   0.05    0.05
25°C                   0.05   0.07    0.10
30°C                   0.12   0.13    0.27
35°C                   0.09   0.13    0.15
40°C                   0.00   0.00    0.00

(a) Respond to the following using the data in the table above, which gives the rate of wood consumption by termites, in mg per day per termite, under various temperature and relative humidity conditions.
Under optimal conditions, the emission rate of methane by termites is approximately 70 kilograms of CH4 per year per 1,000 termites.

(i) According to the data, what are the optimal temperature and relative humidity for termite activity?

(ii) Given a density of 4.5 × 107 termites per hectare and optimal conditions, calculate the annual amount of methane emitted, in kilograms, by the termites inhabiting a 2,000-hectare tropical rain forest.

(iii) Suppose the temperature increases to 35°C and the relative humidity decreases to 50 percent. Using the data provided, determine the amount of methane, in kilograms, that would be emitted by the termites in the 2,000-hectare tropical rain forest.

(iv) Explain why the population size of termites is also affected by temperature and humidity
.
(b) It has been observed that soon after a tropical rain forest is cleared, termite density increases to an estimated 6.8 × 107 termites per hectare. Thereafter, the termite population size decreases dramatically.

(i) What is the most likely reason that the density of the termites increases when a tropical rain forest is cleared?

(ii) Why do the termite populations eventually decrease dramatically?

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Next,  I would like you to research an invasive species.....you can do a bit of research and then find a species/situation that is of interest to you.  AND you will also read an article and answer the attached questions see below homework part two.

Special note* Invasive species can also be called; exotic, introduced, non-native
Invasive species can; degrade habitats, reduce biodiversity, introduce disease
Invasive species can be introduced; accidentally, intentionally, or naturally
Islands are particularly sensitive to invasives so hopefully some of you will research examples of invasives to Island nations

I would like you to find out the following info about your species.
1. name of species
2. where species originates from
3. where species was introduced to
4. how did species get into new ecosystem
5. problems invasive species is causing to new ecosystem (BE SPECIFIC)
6. one species that is native that is being threatened because of the invasive species (EXPLAIN)
7. some solutions for solving this problem
You can do this in bullet point format, but be detailed about it.

Homework part two:
Read the following attached article by Vandana Shiva, then in one strong paragraph and in your own words, summarize this article. 
Next, tell two things that you read in the article that really surprised you or made you think. 
Next, as you read thru the article, describe at least two concepts that you didn't quite understand what she meant.....and write them down. 
Next, answer the second question on the article at the end, the best that you can from the knowledge that you have.
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Next, Complete Zebra Muscle FR attached below. Please do this without help first, then use google to help you out if you need to.

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Hey folks! Announcement: For periods 3,4,5 and 6 BINDERS AND NOTEBOOKS DUE WED 12/17, for period 2 BINDERS AND NOTEBOOKS DUE FRIDAY 12/19
Please print out a table of contents for your binder, you can just use the updated binder list for your TOC
Also, please read through entire ecosystems (ch. 3) power point before Monday, I will attach it again as well.

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Final exam review is attached (not due though)

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Hey Folks: here are a couple of announcements
-Please remove the names of any students who do not or did not contribute to the lab write ups, you can come and see me and I will cross off their names.
-I will give you time in class to put your info together for the lab write up that is due Friday, and I will give you time to answer question 3.
Below is homework.
 
1.Consider the biome chart you made. Please make up a food chain, using the organisms from any biome you choose, include the names of the organisms and label the producers, primary consumers, secondary consumers, and third level consumers, also include at least one type of decomposer that would likely be found in your biome. You can use arrows to show energy transfer from organism to organism.
2. Although you already know the formula for respiration, please write it down again and then tell what the end products are if the respiration occurs under anaerobic conditions.
3. Look at the picture of the decomposers on page 61, research one of those decomposers and explain it's role in decomposition.
4. What is HIPPO? And why should we care about biodiversity?
5. Tell me a little bit about the components of soil.
6. Now tell a little bit about what soil does for this planet (p67)
7.Read about soil horizons and soil profiles, what's the difference between them?
8. Make a chart comparing the 5 soil types shown on page 69.

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Hi Students! Your homework for tonight involves doing some research. Please go online and research "Biodiversity in Ecosystems". You can also try the following terms and phrases as well: biodiversity, monoculture, diverse ecosystems vs. sparse ecosystems, ecosystem diversity etc.
After you check out several websites and read through the information on those websites, list (in bullet point form) TEN (10) concepts that relate to this topic (biodiversity in ecosystems)
BRING A USB STICK TO CLASS TO SAVE DATA!!!

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UPDATED BINDER LIST IS ATTACHED
 
Hi! for tonight's homework, please read the following prompt, then google "Healthy Forests Initiative"  or "HFI" (wiki is good for this topic) read up on the purpose of this legislation. Now please respond to the questions below. You are now officially responsible for knowing what HFI is :)
Go ahead a google "clear cutting" too so you know what it means as well.

For decades, forest fires in the United States have been suppressed. In 2003 legislation was passed under the Healthy Forests Initiative (HFI) in response to the record-breaking wildfires that had occurred in the early 2000s. Some environmental and conservation groups fear that negative impacts could result if timber companies are encouraged to harvest medium- and large-size trees in federally owned forests while clearing away the smaller trees and underbrush.


(a) Identify TWO characteristics of forests that develop when fires are suppressed, and explain why the practice of fire suppression does not reduce, but actually increases, the risk of intense and extensive forest fires.

(b) The effects of the HFI are expected to extend beyond fire reduction. Excluding fire reduction, describe ONE positive and ONE negative effect likely to result from the implementation of the provisions of the HFI.

(c) Describe TWO ecosystem services provided for humans by forests. Explain how clear-cutting would affect each ecosystem service you describe.

(d) Identify a specific type of plant community or biome (other than a forest) that is naturally maintained by fire. Explain how the fire maintains the community or biome.

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This assignment is due on Wed. for periods 5 and 6 and due Thurs. for periods 2, 3 and 4. Please be sure to check all homework and do the correct assignment for the due date :)
 
 
Hi people, for tonight's homework, please read the following prompt and then respond to the questions. (You might want to print this out....it's complicated) I am having you do this assignment so that you can practice how to do the math, don't use a calculator, use your two best friends, scientific notation and dimensional analysis!!!

"The Fremont School District uses oil to heat school buildings. Go Green! is a new project the district will implement. The superintendent has declared that the district will dedicate itself to reducing its carbon footprint. In addition to taking serious energy-conservation measures, the district is planning to help offset its carbon dioxide emissions by raising money to help conserve a portion of a large tract of forest land adjacent to the high school campus'"

1.  Describe one alternative energy source that would reduce the carbon footprint of the school district. Discuss one environmental benefit (other than reduced CO2 emissions) and one environmental drawback of using the alternative source instead of fuel oil.
2. Identify TWO ecological benefits provided by intact forest ecosystems (other than reducing CO2 levels in the atmosphere).
3. Use the assumptions below to answer the questions that follow. For each calculation, show all work.
-The biomass of the forest increases at an annual rate of 2.7 × 105 kg/ha. (ha is hectare, it's a measure of land space)
-The forest biomass is 50 percent carbon by mass.
-Each year the district uses 3.0 × 105  gallons of fuel oil for heating and hot water.
-10 kg of CO2 is produced when 1 gallon of fuel oil is burned.
-1.0 kg of CO2 contains 0.27 kg of carbon.
-The cost of putting 1 ha of the forest into conservancy is $12,000.
(i) Calculate the mass of carbon, in kg, that is accumulated and stored in 1.0 ha of forest in one year.
(ii) Calculate the mass of carbon, in kg, that is emitted by the school as a result of its fuel-oil consumption in one year.
(iii) Calculate the number of hectares of forest the school district needs to conserve in order to offset the carbon released in one year by the school burning its fuel oil.
(iv) Calculate the amount of money the school district must raise for the conservation project.

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Hello all, for the homework please read and comprehend the following pages in your book: pages 50 to 60. Then please respond to the following questions.
1. Can you please define ecology in your own words.
2. Please put the following in the correct order from the most specific to the most general:
-organism, ecosystem, biosphere, population, community
3. What are some of the important functions that bacteria have on this Earth?
4. Why is the recycling of matter an important part of what sustains life on earth?
5. Looking at the section on page 54 called What Happens to Solar Energy...." how much of the suns energy that reaches the earth plays a part in photosynthesis?
6. In the following phrase, identify both the biotic and abiotic factors " Low phosphorus (a nutrient) content in soil limits the growth of vegetation"
7. What are limiting factors? What would be one important limiting factor for a farmer who was planting corn? What would be the main limiting factor in the desert? 
8. Chose any biome or ecosystem and name it, then tell one likely limiting factor specific to that biome.
9. Where would you find the process of chemosynthesis taking place?
**** I am attaching the power point presentation for this chapter....so you can see ahead of time what we will be talking about.expand description

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UPDATE:: read the case study on page 364 "OIL AND ANWR"

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UPDATE:: read the case study on page 364 "OIL AND ANWR"
Hi Folks, this is the weekend assignment, I am putting it up early so you can get an early start if you want. This IS NOT THE ASSIGNMENT due on Friday, see All Homework for that assignment.
For this assignment you will continue to answer questions about biomes,
see chapter 5 for reference and you can always use the Internet to find answers
Questions:
1. How do the various herbivore species in the Savanna ecosystem
reduce competition when it comes to eating?
2. In the tropical rain forest, there are 5 "layers" that describe differences in vegetation, can you please tell me a bit about the "top" layer and the "bottom" layer?
3. Compare/contrast the soil in the tropical rainforest with the soil in the
temperate deciduous forest.
4. Which biome would one find "conifers" in?
5. Do some research on the ARCTIC WILDLIFE REFUGE....What is it, where is it? What characteristics of the tundra make this biome especially sensitive to human interference? What types of human activities would be taking place if we were to open this place up to drilling for oil? What do we use oil for anyway? What types of actions can we humans take to reduce our use of petroleum (aka oil) products?
6. Research the BARK BEETLE by reading the following article
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/11/18/science/18trees.html?pagewanted=all
give me two interesting facts from the article about what is happening to our
nations forests. This is a bit of a review

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Hi! for tonight's homework, you will continue to answer questions about biomes, see chapter 5 for reference and you can always use the Internet to find answers. Special note: test is Monday-it is 43 multiple choice questions. There will not be a review, the information will be related to your homework and biome charts as well as the opening activities on biomes that we did, and any material I discussed with you as we went over the homework.

Back to chapter 5, revisit pages 114 up to page 124. Then please answer the following questions.
1. give a brief description, or sketch describing/showing where in the world the following biomes are found.
tropical savanna, tropical rainforest, deciduous forest, boreal forest, tundra, you will need to be able to identify where these biomes are on a world map.
2. What is the biome type that would most likely be found at the top of a tall mountain?
3. What are two adaptations of tropical rain forest plants?
4. Give a few general characteristics of tropical rainforests.
5. Why are the desert biome and the tundra biome particularly sensitive to human destruction?
6.  Describe lichen and tell which biomes it would be found in.
7.  What are some of the conditions that plants in the Arctic tundra have to put up with?
8.. In between which two biomes can a grassland generally be found?
9. What is another name for a Chaparral biome?
10. How does fire affect the Chaparral biome?

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Hey Folks, this assignment is due on Wed for periods 5 and 6, and on Thursday for periods 2, 3 and 4. Please don't forget to do Tuesday/Wed assignment as well. We are going to tackle a couple of biomes, so please browse through pages 105-114. Then please respond to the following questions
1. Differentiate between tropical and temperate grasslands.....include the following in your response, where each is located, a unique bit of information about each biome, the temperature and precipitation of each, which type of grassland has the best, most rich soil and why?
2. How does fire benefit a grassland ecosystem (google this if need be)
3. What are two major ways humans a negatively impacting the grassland biome?
4. Why is it that deserts can be so hot during the day and yet so cold at night? (page 108)
5. Can you please describe three adaptations of desert plants....
6. Really what is it that defines a desert most?
7. What is "offroading" and why is it particularly destructive in a desert ecosystem? okay your done for now :)
please put a lot of effort and thought into your responses

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Hi Students please peruse through pages 105-124 in your text, feel free to read these pages in full as well. You will need the info in these pages to answer the following questions

1. Well we know the tropical rainforest has the most density of species of any biome in the world, first of all, what drives this incredible speciation there? Also, relating still to this biome, the most popular form of deforestation there is slash and burn, why do you think this method of deforestation is so popular there? Feel free to conduct additional research to back up or provide evidence for your response.

2. Well, slash and burn deforestation is good for planting crops for a season or two, but then it really becomes unsustainable, what characteristics of the rainforest make this such an unsustainable method of farming, explain.

3. We learned a little bit about ecosystem services on Friday, if you are trying to convince a poor farmer in the amazon why he should not practice slash and burn deforestation, what would you tell him, keeping the concept of ecosystem services in mind.

4. There is a mammal that lives in the tropics (and other biomes as well) that has been given a really bad rap (as a matter of fact this mammal's popularity spikes right around the end of October each year) please convince me why I should re-think my disdain for this mammal, still keeping in mind the concept of ecosystem services.

5. Well, grasslands as we know, are where the buffalo roam, and well, some other especially popular domesticated animals now roam there too, hey as an expert ecologist, tell me why I should think twice about consuming this "other popular domestic animal".

6. This biome is also called the CONE-iferous forest ( I know I spelled it wrong) and it is for-real, what is it called?

7. Of all the abiotic factors that influence the types and adaptations of plants and animals in a biome, what do you think would be number one, light or amount of rainfall? Defend your position with researchable facts.

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HI everybody! hw is below
-First, read this: http://www.livescience.com/23026-global-warming-changing-world.html
I mean click on the link and then read the info :)
-Next pick three of the events listed (there are 8 total) and conduct further research on each of the three events using the links provided in the short explanation given or your book (ch 20) Find out more information and elaborate on what was mentioned in the news piece. For each of the three events, write up a paragraph on your findings....include the website you used. Paragraphs should be at least five sentences and should not repeat the info given in the origial news piece. To recap, that's a total of THREE complete, well-written paragraphs, use only your own words, and feel free to add commentary. Short paragraphs that are not original will not be considered for a stamp.AND I read all of the short explanations, so I will easily be able to tell if you are using your own words.

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Be sure to study for El Nino/La NIna free response test, which is on Thursday 11/13

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Greetings!, From now on, if you are typing your homework, please include the questions, and for those of you who are on the borderline (should I type or not type my homework) it would be great if you could start  typing your homework :)
Also, I have submitted grades for this grading period, and I am adding the test AFTER the grades were submitted, so your grade on your report card will not reflect your true grade in this class if you did poorly on the test (just FYI)
This is HW#1, fifth packet
Tonight's homework deals with "El Nino" I would like you to research El Nino in your book (pages S39 and S49) and then check out the following websites and read about El Nino here: http://www.livescience.com/3650-el-nino.html

and here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/El_Ni%C3%B1o%E2%80%93Southern_Oscillation
Please browse through at least two additional websites related to El Nino.

After you read the webpages on El Nino, please respond to the following questions
1. Describe what an El Nino is and tell clearly where it occurs
2. People in what part of the world are most affected by El Nino, explain?
3. Clearly describe two important environmental impacts associated with an El Nino in different parts of the world
4. Now take a look at this website http://www.allcountries.org/health/el_nino_and_its_health_impact.html......now explain what is the possible connection between El Nino and an increase in the spread of disease? 

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here is the Crisis in the Atmosphere with Answers just in case
and an updated binder list just in case
study for your test :)

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For those of you reading this post, congratulations! You have just earned an opportunity for extra credit. Since I will not be here on Monday, you all will be watching a video called "Crisis in the Atmosphere". To earn 5 points extra credit, you can print out the set of questions attached here and complete it on Monday and turn it into the sub. You might even be able to find the movie on youtube and get a head start on the questions. I will not accept any questions after the end of school on Monday.

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Homework: please begin by reading page 104, next read page 441, and page 486-490 You will be making a chart that compares the ozone layer (and the hole in the ozone) with the greenhouse layer (and global warming)
PS, if you care about your score on the AP test, you will take your time to really learn this material and do the reading/watch the video etc, this is a huge part of the AP test :)

1.Please watch the following short video on ozone depletion
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PXV6ppONgUk

2.Now do some research on the Internet, I have included a few websites that may help you find the information to fill in your chart (your book is also a source for information)

http://www.coastalcommunities.ns.ca/didyouknow.php?cid=3&aid=96
http://www.janesoceania.com/oceania_global_warming/index.htm

Please include the following information in your chart
1. where each layer is located in the atmosphere
2. what each layer is made up of
3. purpose of each layer to the Earth
4. how each layer is being altered by humans
5. the effects of the changes happening in each layer
6. some solutions to help repair the damage being done
7. the international protocols agreed upon by many nations to tackle these two enormous global environmental issues

Please make sure your chart is detailed and includes as much information as you can find. Be sure it is neat and clear and easy to read. If you need more information, feel free to research each layer using the Internet, you can Google it or YouTube it, there is plenty of information out there.

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Hi guys, here is the review for the test next week, we still have a few things to cover on the review. The test will most likely be next T/W hopefully, so be ready by then.
here is the video :Five Factors that Influence Climate, watch it if you were absent

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Hi Folks, here are the directions for the Solar Insolation lab write up. Good Luck! Remember to use detail and accuracy in your responses to the questions. Add examples where you deem it helpful.
Ok here goes:
-You may work in groups of 3, 4 or 5 for this lab write up, only one copy will be turned in.
-All graphs/calculations/data etc. must be done ON THE LAB HANDOUT
-Questions must be typed on a separate paper, with the answer typed below, in other words, you will need to type up the questions, leave a space and then add your answers below
-Each student needs to understand the nature of each question, this is information that you each need to know for this class.
-Each student in your lab write up group will do a portion of the questions, and send their part to the "assembler". The assembler will be responsible for putting the whole thing together into a professional looking write up. PLEASE DO NOT have each student do their part separately and staple it together the day it's due. I don't want to see any excess paper being used, in addition everything must be in the correct order. If you don't follow these directions, your lab will not be graded.
-The questions that need to be included are as follows:
PART A: Q 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15
PART B: Q 1, 2, 3, 4, 8, 10, 11, 12, 14-20, 22-26
The complete, professional, flowing write up is due on Wed for periods 5/6 and due Thurs for periods 2,3 and 4.
-Clarify who did what for each part of lab write up by placing initials next to each part
-So to recap, you will turn in a final draft of the lab handout, and you will staple the typed questions behind that and put everyone in the groups name on the front
 

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Please read through pages 440 up through page 441 in your book. You can stop after the section on The Stratosphere. Be sure you know the names of each layer of the atmosphere and the order from the Earths surface. Now answer the following, we may not have time to cover this in class so be sure to know this info!
1. Which layer contains the ozone layer, and by the way, what does ozone really do for the earth, and how does this benefit the planet, in other words, what would Earth be like without the ozone, you can speculate here.
2. Well describe how the density of gases would vary in each layer, and tell which layer really has the most molecules .
3. Which region would contain the typical weather that we experience down here close to the surface of the earth?
4. There's an outermost layer not on the diagram in your book, find out what this layer is called and compare it's atmopheric pressure to the atmospheric pressure of the troposphere.
5. Up to the ozone again, hey, how is ozone formed up there in that layer that its in? You can also give the formula.
6. Hey please find out and list the %'s of Nitrogen, oxygen and Carbon dioxide here in the troposphere.

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HI! Finish both graphs from solar insolation lab, include all the data on graph #2 (include both the light source directly above, and the light source at an angle on graph #2)
*** Graph #2 should end up to have 6 lines; 3 solid lines that represent the light source directly above data, and 3 dashed lines that represent the light source at an angle. Remember to do each substance in a different color. For example if you do water in blue for the solid line, so water in blue for the dashed line.

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Finish up column B and E from table 1, part A of your solar insolation lab. Also we will be going over the homework from Wed/Thurs so bring it to class (also I need to stamp it)

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Hello students. This assignment is due on Wed for periods 5 and 6 and it will be due on Thursday for periods 2,3 and 4.
1.Please research the Earth's Atmosphere (or "layers of the earth's atmosphere) sketch a diagram showing and naming each of the layers of the atmosphere, show the distances as well, and major things happening in each layer, for the troposphere include the major gases and their percentages found there. There is a diagram in your book as well.
2. go to http://www.atmosphere.mpg.de/enid/3sj.html Next read through the whole page and summarize atmospheric circulation in your own words in a short paragraph.
Next:
please go to google or use your book, and find answers to the following questions. Here is a website that might help a bit with a few of the questions
http://www.weatherdudes.com/facts_display.php?fact_id=35
3. What causes wind?
4. What causes there to be THREE windbelts in the northern hemisphere?
5. How do ocean and wind currents benefit the planet?....describe AT LEAST THREE ways
6. Where is the Coriolis Effect the most intense and why?
7. Why is the air at 60 degrees north latitude warm air rising? (when it seems kinda cold up there) 

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Here is a copy of the Solar Insolation lab, please print it out so that you have your  own copy, bring it to class with you as well. It was brought to my attention that it would be difficult to do a lab write up with the group of your choice, because you will all have different data. So I decided that for the final write up, I will give you  a fresh lab hand out that you may do your final draft on and use whoevers data you  choose from your group.
Now that you know if you are an "A" or a "B", your job is to look over your procedure part (A or B) and familiarize yourself with the steps. I will give you a short quiz on your part tomorrow!
SECOND Thing you must do for homework tonight is to UPDATE your table of contents for your notebook, this is mandatory:)
 

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FYI Updated Binder list (no it's not due on Monday)

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Hi Everybody! Hope you are having a great Thursday evening! Read pages 103-107...then answer the following questions:
1. Describe the difference between weather and climate (from page 101) and list three random places that are interesting to you and research each places' climate and describe the climate in 3 sentences or more.
2. Research atmospheric circulation and the Coriolis Effect. In one paragraph, describe global wind and ocean currents, and tell what the Coriolis Effect is.
3. Research one specific wind or ocean current (example would be the Gulf stream or the North Atlantic current (ocean) or the Doldrums or Horse latitudes (wind), but you can be creative and pick your own current :) Anyway write up a paragraph (4 sentence min) describing the current, how it is formed, where it goes, what is it famous for, and really any other interesting info you can find about it.

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Please read pages 100-103 in your book.
After reading, please find the following passages in the assigned reading and do the following for EACH 1) tell what page and paragraph it is 2) tell what the significance or meaning of the passage is within the context of the reading 3) relate this passage to the environment. If you have any questions, ask me tomorrow before we go over it.
passages:
#1 "Dust rich in phosphates and iron blows across the Atlantic from the Sahara desert in Africa"
#2 "Increasing numbers of four wheel vehicles speeding over the sand break the desert's surface crust"
#3 "Pollution and dust from rapidly industrializing China and central Asia blow accross the Pacific ocean and degrade air quality over part of the Western United States"
#4 "When we disturb the soil and leave it unprotected, we hasten and intensitfy the natural process"
#5 "Four major factors determine global air circulation patterns. The first factor is the uneven heating of the earth's surface by the sun"
#6 "This creates opposite seasons in the northern and southern hemisphere"

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Hi Students here is the Earth Science concepts  power point. You can use this to study for the free response test
Also, the concept descriptions for the Geologic timeline Activity can be found directly after the San Andreas fault slide.

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Study for Plate Tectonics Free Response test :)

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Hi Guys and Gals, please look in the back of your book in the "supplement" section. Find pages S43 and S44 and read them. Then answer the following questions (due wed for periods 5/6 and Thursday for periods 2/3/4)
1. Describe how an earthquake actually happens
2. What would be standard protocol for reducing life and property loss from an earthquake?
3. How do Tsunami early warning systems work?
4. What role did coral reefs and mangrove forests play in reducing deaths and damage from the Indonesian Tsunami?
5. Describe the role of certain types of volcanic eruptions in creating a cooling effect on the earth
6. What would be the most important benefit of volcanism?

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Hi Students...here is the hw for those of you that would like to get an early start
Please start by watching the following video clip:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ryrXAGY1dmE
1. Please explain how convection currents in the mantle form plate boundaries in the lithosphere
2. Please check out the following website and please read through the whole thing then answer the following
http://www.cotf.edu/ete/modules/msese/earthsysflr/plates4.html
Please sketch a subduction plate boundary, you can research several sites to help you.
Label everything and color everything, include a section of the mantle in your sketch and show the accurate convection cell that would form a subduction plate boundary.
3. Now do the same for a divergent plate boundary, be sure to show surface features that result
4. Now research one major earthquake and volcanic eruption that has happened within the past 200 years, research the geologic activity that was the cause of the earthquake and volcano, by this I mean do some research to dig deep. Now write up a short paragraph for each, explain also the damage that was caused in addition to the geology (plate tectonics)

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There will be no homework due this Friday.

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HI Students, when you get a chance, print this grading rational key out and keep a copy in your notebook/binder. Check back for tonight's homework
Also periods 5 and 6 bring in your completed "An Inconvenient Truth" questions
on Wed. Period 2 we will finish the movie on Thurs. Periods 3 and 4 bring your completed questions in on Thursday.
This next homework assignment will be due on Wed for periods 5 and 6 and it will be due on Thursday for periods 2, 3 and 4.
1. Read pages 336-339 and discuss 5 concepts you learned from the reading....use complete thoughts and complete sentences/detail.
2. Next...head to google and look up Geologic Time Scale....define/describe it in your own words (3-5 sentences)
3. Now head back to google and type in this; "environmental benefits of tsunamis and earthquakes,and volcanos"......read through a few of the more interesting and informative websites and describe your findings in a fat paragraph. In addition please read the following article on this website http://planetsave.com/2012/05/06/earthquake-and-tsunami-good-for-beaches-seawalls-not-so-much/
it doesn't talk about benefits of volcanos, so you will have to look that up separately.

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Hi Folks, well on Monday I will not be in class, (don't be too happy :) so your job will be to print out the "Inconvenient Truth" questions below and bring them to class on Monday. We will be watching the movie Monday and Tuesday and Wednesday :) :)
ALSO BINDERS DUE TUES/WED
1. Put all assignments in order (see the white board in my room)
2. I should be able to open it, quickly skim through the assignments and check that they are there.
3. If it is out of order, you will only receive half credit.
4. Any missing assignments will receive 2 points off
5. The total points possible will be 10.
6. Put your name ON THE FRONT OF THE BINDER (do what ever it takes to make this happen)

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Watch this till the end in case we didn't quite finish it in class (hint hint period 6)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nGDfafmX6H8 pay close, close attention to the Ehux/DMS connection and be sure to KNOW that feedback loop. Also here are the other 6 feedback loops, in case you need a refresher.
Quiz is on Friday, study ALL 7 seven feedback loops, you will be tested on three of them :) This is a FREE RESPONSE test, in case you were wondering.

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Hi! The following assignment is due on Wed for periods 5 and 6, and it will be due on Thurs for periods 2, 3 and 4. Lets call this Homework #2 (third packet) Bark Beetles and Ocean Currents
First please click on the link http://www.hcn.org/blogs/goat/the-bark-beetle-feedback-loop and read the article and respond to the following:
1. What are some of the ecosystem functions performed by our forests described in the article?
2. Describe how trees can cool a LOCAL ecosystem.
3. What is the main idea of this article?
and read through this article.
4. What would you say is one of the main assets to the planet of ocean currents?
5. Carefully read paragraphs 5,6 and 7, and tell me, what are the main forces that drive the ocean currents?
6. Generally speaking, what could happen if the ocean currents were to slow down, you can find the info to answer this Q in paragraphs 2 and 3, and paragraphs 14 and 15 (the latter having more detail)

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Hi students, tonight's homework is more stuff about feedback loops,  we will have a free response quiz on global warming feedback loops on Friday :) 
Lets call this Homework #1 (plus a description) for the next packet
So......homework: please go to this link: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Climate_change_feedback
1. read the first paragraph (I realize the vocab is intense in some parts, but you can read it twice or three times like I did to "get" it)
Summarize one or two main concepts from that first paragraph and put that summary in your own words. Really a couple of complex sentences should suffice
2. Go down to the section on Methane and read the "Methane release from hydrates" and the "Methane release from melting permafrost and peat bogs".
Now write out a comparison/contrast type of chart where you compare and contrast the two events.
3.Now read/skim through the ENTIRE article and please pick one event described in the reading and summarize the feed back loop. Ideally it would be cool if we could be able to discuss ALL of them, but hopefully with 30 students in each class we can get all of them covered. So, pick one that you think no one else would cover :)

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Hola! for tonight, simply study for your quiz  Friday, use your notes, homework and the power point. I would say read everything through a couple times, and then you should be ready. Try to spend about 1/2 an hour studying. Then see how you do, and adjust from there.

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Howdy Folks! This assignment is due on Wed. for periods 5 and 6 and it will be due on Thurs. for period 2, 3 and 4 :)
Use your chapter 2 notes and the power point (and of course the Internet) to respond to these questions
1. Let us revisit synergy, I would like you to read the following blog about the synergistic effects of mercury and lead. Once you read it, please summarize it briefly (3-5 sentences) Is a blog completely factual information?
2. Explain what a positive feedback loop is (I know, I know, you already answered this, but it turns out many of you still aren't sure, so lets do it again)
3. What does it mean when something has reached its "environmental threshold"? Also known simply as a "threshold"
4.Look up the acronym NIMBY, now lets assume we are going to specifically relate this concept to a land fill or some type of hazardous waste dump site, what does this have to do with "Law of Conservation of Matter"
5. How many half-lifes does a radioactive element need to undergo for it to be considered safe for humans to handle? Please look up the half life of Uranium 238 and tell how many years U-238 must be stored to be considered safe.

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Hello Students, your homework tonight is to read through the Chapter 2 power point and the Chapter 2 notes that are attached below. I would like you to download the notes and bring them with you to class on Wed/Thursday I will be giving you a quiz on this information on Friday, so please carefully read through the notes and power point, a good portion of it is review and there is some new information as well. Also, please answer the following questions:
1.Please differentiate between fission and fusion.
2. We have done a bit of research on persistent organic pollutants and  you should have a basic understanding of them. In the notes and on the power point there are 4 "types of pollutants" given. Which category from these "types of pollutants" would POP's fall under? (answer in a complete sentence :)
3. Now, there are some pollutants that never break down, can you please give me an example of one, use a complete sentence.
4. A volcano erupts and creates a large cloud of ash and gas that blocks the sunlight from reaching major portions of the earth, this could lead to global cooling. What type of feedback loop is this? Explain why this is so.
5. Please click on the link entitled "An Environmental Tipping point Story", next read the story. Now please do a bit of additional research and find another example of an environmental tipping point relating to nature and humans and explain it. (3-4 sentences will suffice)
By the way, just to be sure to practice what I preach, the Tipping Point article was written by Gerald Martin :)
 
 

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Hi Students, just a reminder that all test corrections must go in the notebooks, if you used a separate sheet of paper, just tape or staple it in the notebook.
Also, be sure to put ALL graded work into your binder for this class, I will eventually be checking those too :)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Persistent_organic_pollutant
Read the above web page please, the whole thing, it's about 1 page.
1. What are some of the chemical properties of persistent organic pollutants?
2. What is bioaccumulation and how do POP's exhibit this phenomenon?
3. Ok, here is a question I honestly don't know the answer to and it is your job to find out the answer, whether it be through research, or asking your favorite chemistry teacher, you can share the answer with other APES students if you know the answer: What is it about halogens and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons that makes them so darn persistent in the environment?
4. Describe at least three ways POP's affect human or animal health

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Students: the following homework is due on Wed for periods 5 and 6, and it is due on Thurs. for periods 2, 3 and 4.
Hello students, here is the homework, Some of it may seem to over lap with previous homework, that is okay, just go ahead and do it :)
1. Please read page 31 on "Paradigm Shifts". Besides the examples given in the reading, please think of and describe a paradigm shift that has taken place on this planet since people have been around.
2. Now please read about matter quality on page 38, Give me some examples of high vs. low quality matter.
3. Which is easier to extract, high or low quality matter?
4. On to page 40, read about persistence. Now please research one example of a persistent pollutant. In a short paragraph, explain what the chemical pollutant is (you can give its chemical formula), next tell what it is or has been used for, tell the problems its use has caused in the environment, and tell what the solution has been or what the solution could be for getting this chemical out of our environment.

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Although we will be finishing up our presentation of the article tomorrow, I would like you to get a head start on Chapter 2 (and other info we are about to learn) so for tonight's homework I would like you to do the following:

1) Read page 28 and  then please describe what happened to Easter Island.
2) Now please read page 33, Lets just say that you eat lots and lots of sugary candy and sweets everyday, but it really doesn't phase you, you feel great. Then in about 10 years, you decide to take charge of your health and STOP eating sweets. So the years pass by and then you turn 50 and all of the sudden you are diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, what is the phrase for this that is described in your reading?
3) Now please take this phrase (from #3) and apply it to a real life environmental issue, explain.
4) Well as you know, the sea ice in the North pole is melting a bit due to warming ocean temperatures caused by a warmer atmosphere (global warming) As this ice melts, the water is exposed beneath. It turns out that water absorbs sunlight/heat and ice reflects it. So now with all this bare water exposed in the polar regions, the water is starting to absorb sunlight/heat and warm up even more, which then causes more ice to melt, which then exposes more water. Which of the phenomenon from the reading of page 33 am I referring to?
5) Now please read page 34 again :) Give me a real life example of synergy related to either health effects on the human body or a real life example of synergy related to the environment (organisms, ecosystems etc)
6) Please read page 40......"The solution to pollution is dilution" which concept am I describing from the reading with this ill advised quote?

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Hi Guys! Please finish watching the "Story of Stuff" and respond to the prompts and be ready to share your responses on Monday. Here's the link https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9GorqroigqM

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Hola students, there is no real homework tonight, but I did find an article I think you should read, here it is, take a moment to look at it.
Also**** period 2, did someone take the extra credit sheet? I never got it back from you guys and I need it to be able to give out the extra credit :)

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HI Guys! here is the test review!
Although there is a "due date" indicated, this review is not actually going to be turned in, it is just a general guideline on what to study for the first test, which we will have (hopefully) on Wed/Thurs 9/3 and 9/4. (periods 5 and 6 would have the test on Wed, and periods 2, 3 and 4 would have the test on Thursday) Also I am uploading both power points :)

-sustainablilty and sustainable societies and strategies for sustainable cities
-developed vs. developing countries; general characteristics of each
-the ways that developing and developed countries contribute to environmental degredation
-renewable vs nonrenewable resources
-tragedy of the commons
-unsustainable resource use
-how poverty drives overpopulation
-poor environmental accounting
-how diet affects footprint
-green building strategies
-benefits of seasonally and locally grown food
-suburban sprawl compared to compact urban living
-external costs in relationship to pollution
-point vs nonpoint pollution
-GDP
-Know the laws of thermodynamics
-know which areas of the world are going to experience the majority of population growth in the next few decades
--know examples and consequences of humans simpliying and dominating nature
--know the general characteristics of the hunter gatherer period, and the agricultural and industrial revolutions

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Assignment

Greetings people! For tonights homework, I would like you to revisit chapter 1 reading, and respond to the following questions. Also, Eco foot print activity will be due on Friday 8/29
1) take a look at the diagram on page 9, how would you define natural capital?
2) looking at that same diagram, make a connection between one natural resource and one natural service. For example the natural resource of biodiversity includes forests, and one natural service provided by forests could be climate control. YOU CAN'T USE THIS EXAMPLE :)
3) taking a look at the core case study on page 6, re-read it. How would you describe exponential growth?
4) Read about China and India on page 15, summarize this reading in 2 sentences.
5) from all of this resource consumption comes pollution, look at page 16, what are some basic differences between cleaning up pollution and preventing pollution?
6) looking at page 22, and then reading about environmental world views, which view do you think the president of the US should have to be an effective president?
7) look at page page 23, what are the four principals of sustainability?

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Assignment

Special note: the following homework will be due on Wed for periods 5 and 6, and it will be due on Thursday for periods 2, 3 and 4
 
Hello everyone please read pages 28, 31-34, 39, 40, 42-47 in your textbook. In addition, I would like you to conduct a bit of internet research on the following terms or phrases and then summarize your findings for each phrase in 2-3 sentences
-benefits of eating seasonally and locally
-benefits to the environment of plant based diets
-compact urban living vs. suburban living
-green building
-passive solar heating
-green roofs
Now, please respond to the following questions to the best of your ability
1. Is the earth a closed or open sysyem for energy?
2. Is the earth a closed or open system for matter?
3. Contrast the agricultural revolution with the industrial revolution
4. Would you ever want to be a hunter-gatherer? Explain.
5. What are the first and second laws of thermodynamics?
6. Describe the concept of synergy as it relates to environmental science, use a specific example in your description
ALSO, if you are a facebook person, when you get a chance, request to join the APES group if you can.......
we can post cool stuff relating to this class on there and share and learn!

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Assignment

Hi! Hope your day is going well :) Please remember to bring your print out of the Ecological Footprint Activity to class on Tues/Wed
For tonight's hw I would like you to research examples of sustainable cities, find one that seems interesting to you. In the first paragraph introduce the city, tell me about it, where is it, who lives there, what's the climate like, etc. Also tell what the major businesses are, in other words, what do most people do for a living?
In the second paragraph, explain several of the ways that the city is practicing sustainability.
In the third paragraph, tell what you think about the city, would you want to live there? Explain. Give commentary...is this type of living practical for the masses?

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Assignment

No homework for the weekend! But don't forget to do Thursday night homework that is due on Friday, see previous post.

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Hello, for tonights homework please read from pages 17 up to page 23. Then do the following:
1. Please describe what exactly is "pollution"? And please explain point vs nonpoint pollution and give a clear example of each
2. Describe how poverty can lead to overpopulation.
3. Research an "environmental accomplishment", in other words, a case study or specific example in which humans have made a positive impact and change relating to an environmental problem. Write up a paragraph (6-9 sentences) describing the problem and how it was solved. It should be completely in your own words.  (this is so that we can restore our faith in humanity ;)
4. Bring Science donation......thanks in advance! I am going to do my best to use this money on something worthwhile for us!

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Assignment

Hola, hope your first few days of schol are going wonderfully. For tonights homework please read up to page 16 of your book. Then go on the internet and research a real life example of "Tragedy of the Commons". Write up a 2 paragraph summary of your findings. Each paragraph should be about 5 sentences minimum. The first paragraph should contain a summary of the situation; the who, why, when, what, where......and in the second paragraph give some pracitcal solutions for managing the commons so that it does not become depleted or destroyed. Be ready to share your findings
Also, please download and bring a copy of the Ecological footprint activity attached :) we will do this in class
One more thing: please find out the following info as much as possible before you come to class on Friday, you can just jot this info on back of eco footprint activity
-approximate square footage of house
-what type of energy sources are used at home (electricity/natural gas etc)
-types of light bulbs at your house (incandescent or compact fluorescent)
-where your food comes from (farmers market, grocery store etc)
-household recycling habits
-do you eat organic?
-energy efficient appliances?
-water saving devices?

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Assignment

Hello! Please read pages 6-12 in your book then please answer the following questions.
*also finish your sketch on the first page of your notebook!
do this homework on a piece of paper that you will eventually turn in (using scratch paper is fine)
1. Describe how human population growth is an example of exponential growth.
2. Explain 3 things that could happen or are happening as a result of exponential human population growth.
3. How would you define "sustainability"?
4. Describe 3 ways humans are affecting our "Natural Capital"?
5. What is GDP and what is GDP based on in today's global economy?
6. Please tell me three ways developed countries differ from developing countries.
Also please download and bring a copy of the attached notes with you to class tomorrow.

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Assignment

Greetings and welcome to APES!
1. Your first homework assignment will be to find a current event or past event related to the ENVIRONMENT. Write up a 3/4 (that's three-fourths) page summary IN YOUR OWN OWN WORDS. The first paragraph should summarize the problem or issue (where, who, what, why and when) and in the second paragraph give some ideas on how to solve this problem. In the third paragraph, give your own commentary/opinion and tell why people should be aware of this issue.
2. Also....finish your note card (name and interesting fact on one side and colored, creative drawing on the other side)
3. cover your book and write your name in it too.
4. Have your folks read and sign the classroom guidelines page I gave you in class today.
5. Get a "notebook" just for this class and this class alone