Environmental Field Science Final Essay Assignment
The 11th Hour focuses on the human actions that have created a multitude of problems for the environment and for
mankind, and the need for changing our ways as a species. At the end of the film, scientists identify that every living
system is in decline, that our own extinction is a real possibility, and that in order to make a change we need to integrate
ecology into our everyday lives. The ultimate cause and coincidentally the ultimate solutions require us to address our
collective ignorance about how we affect nature negatively and how we can implement positive changes. Not only is
increased awareness essential, but more importantly an increased desire to take action is necessary. Environmental
field science was a course designed to build awareness of environmental processes and issues through classroom and
field experiences. We have looked at the Earth as a system of interacting spheres and addressed some large topic areas
within these spheres in a relatively short amount of time. (Content covered is listed below). The following essay
assignment is meant to stretch your thinking and cause you to carefully consider your personal impact on the
environment and what you may have learned about lessening that impact.
Course Content & Field Work Covered:
Introduction – Earth System & spheres, interactions, cycles – C, O, N, P, water, basic field practices
Diversity of Living things – Ecological principles, biodiversity, prairies/forests, pop. dynamics, biome project
Surface Water Quality - Surface Water quality, Laws, IOWATER, Water Quality parameters, protocols & testing;
Indian creek project & how development (stadium) & land uses influence watersheds, BMPs
Groundwater quality, laws, Fruitvale simulation project; Marion water,
Human Population & Environment – Pop growth parameters, influencing factors, resource
Distribution, Envi. Problems related to population, The Story of Stuff, Landfill tour, the human footprint
Prepare clear essay-type responses to the following questions. Address all parts of each question. Provide thorough
answers worthy of AT LEAST the value assigned to the question. You are welcome and encouraged to use any and all
resources available to you. Please type, or write legibly – double spaced.
Procedure – Take rough notes during the film; consult notebook; internet sources; review project work; class & field
work to develop your ideas. * Type clear responses on separate paper OR EMAIL responses. * Papers due on Friday.
1. a. What is the significance of the title – the 11th hour?
b. Outline a minimum of 3 major issues discussed in this documentary. (Identify, explain, and describe why you feel
each is an important issue requiring global awareness and attention at the local level and explain how each issue
has related to something you studied in class).
(10)
2. Below are the graphs representing the individual outcomes from measuring our impact on Earth. i. The first
represents the percentage of “our allotted share” of arable land we use for food and fuel alone. This does not include
the % we would require for other life activities. ii. The second graph represents our relative carbon footprint, by
estimating our life activities in a formula that would represent the number of Earths we would require, if everyone on
Earth lived in the same manner in which we live. Iii. The third graph is an older version of the carbon footprint activity #
a.
What surprised you about your personal results? The class results?
b.
How do you think these results would compare to results from someone in rural Mali (Africa)? Explain any
similarities or differences.
c.
Why is it important to consider our impacts as they relate to, not only local concerns, but also to what is
happening on a global basis?
(7)
3. As a species, we have come onto this Earth only recently, yet we have made the Earth our home and have
commanded its resources to work for us and have, in doing so, created many problems. The Story of Stuff outlined a 5
step system regarding the production of goods. (a & b may include diagrams/concept map)
a. Outline that 5 step process.
b. Explain how each step influences sustainability (economics, society, environment) in a variety of ways.
c. Considering the Linn County Landfill tour and actions within our community, how has our community addressed some
of the problem with the “Story of Stuff” system. (consider the programs implemented in this community)
(8)
4. How important do you think it is to understand your local environment (ie. Community of Marion) - from its plantlife, animal-life, geology and hydrology (water) to its social, economic and political characteristics? Provide reasons for
your response (minimum of 3).
(4)
5. Provide 2 examples of classroom or fieldwork activities/content you completed that increased your level of
understanding about the environment or a specific environmental issue. Explain what you did, how it increased your
awareness/understanding and how it might (or might not) influence future actions.
(6)
Total =
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