3-4: Biodiversity

Importance of this Unit to the Course

Changes in climate as discussed in Block 2 have different effects on different components of ecosystems: some species thrive while others find conditions less favorable. Some species will be lost. This unit addresses issues of whether these changes in biodiversity are critical to sustainable development as discussed in this Block.

Objectives

To gain an overview of the global number of species and their rates of change.
To examine the ecological services provided by biodiversity and their economic value.

Preparation for Discussion (You must complete this section before class.)

Read the summary information. ( Images )

Take the Quiz over the summary information. (see your portfolio)

Review additional reading material (this material is not covered in the quiz, but offers more ideas for online discussion)

Study Shows Organic Farming Is Amazingly Efficient

Discussion (online / face-to-face) (See your portfolio for due dates and times)

A major component of the course is participation in the online dialog. The following types of comments are required:

Social Comments
Knowledge-building Comments
Ethical Comments

The following may be used as discussion starters for the online dialog:

Unit Problem to Ponder:

Non-native (or "invasive" species) tend to reduce biodiversity. What are some invasive species in the Midwest and how have they impacted biodiversity?
Unit exam questions from previous years
Unit discussions from previous years, available from the current online discussion page

Additional Reading