Topics Explored: Introduction to Environmental Science, Data Processing and Analysis, Scientific Writing
This case study explores the history of the American Chestnut tree and the chestnut blight (Cryphonectria parasitica) in the United States, and examines their respective impacts on the ecosystem and biodiversity. The role of the American Chestnut Tree in the battle against rising atmospheric CO2 levels and the use of genetic modifications as potential solutions are considered. Answer key included.
Case Study: American Chestnut (Teacher & Student Edition)
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(1 Teacher Edition and 1 Student Edition)Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS):
HS-ESS3-1 Construct an explanation based on evidence for how the availability of natural resources, occurence of natural hazards, and changes in climate have influenced human activity.
HS-LS2-7. Design, evaluate, and refine a solution for reducing the impacts of human activities on the environment and biodiversity.
HS-ESS3-4. Evaluate or refine a technological solution that reduces impacts of human activities on natural systems.AP® Environmental Science Learning Objectives:
1.9 Explain how energy flows and matter cycles through trophic levels.
1.10 Determine how the energy decreases as it flows through ecosystems.
1.11 Describe food chains and food webs, and their constituent members by trophic level.
2.2 Describe ecosystem services. Describe the results of human disruption to ecosystem services.
2.4 Describe ecological tolerance.
3.4 Describe carrying capacity. Describe the impact of carrying capacity on ecosystems.
3.5 Explain how resource availability affects population growth.
9.8 Explain the environmental problems associated with invasive species and strategies to control them.
9.9 Explain how species become endangered and strategies to combat the problem.9.10 Explain how human activities affect biodiversity and strategies to combat the problem.AP® Environmental Science Practices:
Practice 1: Explain environmental concepts, processes, and models presented in written format.
Practice 2: Analyze visual representations of environmental concepts and processes.
Practice 3: Analyze sources of information about environmental issues.
Practice 4: Analyze research studies that test environmental principles.
Practice 5: Analyze and interpret quantitative data represented in tables, charts, and graphs.
Practice 6: Apply quantitative methods to address environmental concepts.
Practice 7: Propose and justify solutions to environmental problems.AP® is a registered trademark registered by the College Board®. This work/product/service has been developed independently from and is not endorsed by the College Board®.