Bellringer What is the environment? Is the environment something that can be “harmed,” “saved,” “preserved,” or “destroyed”?

Tools of Environmental Science Chapter 2

Scientific Methods Section 1

The Experimental Method Observing (descriptions, drawings, photos and measurements) Hypothesizing and Predicting (what’s the difference?) Experimenting (variable, experimental group, and control group) Organizing and Analyzing Data Drawing Conclusions

Correlation Method Is it ethical to do an experiment to determine if smoking has anything to do with lung cancer? The correlation method is when you make a reliable association between two or more events. Does not prove cause and effect relationships.

Tree Rings It was found that large width between tree rings were indicators of rainy seasons because the tree was allowed to grow.

Jamestown Jamestown, America’s first city, has a reputation of lost colonies. At the time nobody new why. Look at the graph can you make a correlation and predict why?

What makes a good Scientist? Good scientist are able to see patterns, be creative, and expand the boundaries of what we know.

Section 2 Statistics and Models

Statistics Statisitcs is the collection and classification of data in the form of numbers. Distribution is a relative arrangement of the members of a statistical population

What is probability? Probability is the chance that something will happen. For determining probabilty you must use a correct sample size.

Models Physical Models- 3D models you can touch (Ex. DNA) Graphical Models- maps and charts

Models Conceptual Model are verbal or graphical explanation for how a system works or is organized Mathematical Models are equations that represent the ways a system works

Section 3 Making Informed Descisions

Making Informed Descision All decisions made have risk. Risk is the probability of an unwanted outcome. All decesions must me made using a set of values, which are principles are standards that are considered important.

Environmental Decision- Making Model A decision making model is a conceptual model that provides a systematic process for making decisions. Gather Information Consider Values Explore Consequences Make a decision

Values that Affect Environmental Decision Making ValueDefinition AestheticWhat is beautiful or pleasing EconomicThe gain or loss of money or jobs EnvironmentalThe protection of natural resources EducationalThe accumulation and sharing of knowledge EthicalWhat is right and wrong HealthThe maintenance of human health RecreationalHuman leisure activities ScientificUnderstanding of the natural world Social/CulturalThe maintenance of human communities and their values and traditions.

A Hypothetical Situation Read page What is factual arguments? What is emotional arguments?

How to use the Decision Making Model Gather Information Consider Values Explore Consequences Make a Decision Let’s Decide the right thing to do as a class.