Programs of Study Grade 7 - 9 (Alberta Education, 2003)
Outcomes for Science, Technology and Society (STS) and Knowledge
Students will:
General outcome 1
Investigate and describe relationships between humans and their environments, and identify related issues and scientific questions
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identify examples of human impacts on ecosystems, and investigate and analyze the link between these impacts and the human wants and needs that give rise to them
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analyze personal and public decisions that involve consideration of environmental impacts, and identify needs for scientific knowledge that can inform those decisions
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General outcome 4
Describe the relationships among knowledge, decisions and actions in maintaining life-supporting environments
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identify intended and unintended consequences of human activities within local and global environments
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illustrate, through examples, the limits of scientific and technological knowledge in making decisions about life-supporting environments
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analyze a local environmental issue or problem based on evidence from a variety of sources, and identify possible actions and consequences
Unit A: Interactions and Ecosystems (Social and Environmental Emphasis)
Overview
Ecosystems develop and are maintained by natural processes and are affected by human action. To foster an understanding of ecosystems, this unit develops student awareness of ecosystem components and interactions, as well as natural cycles and processes of change. Building on this knowledge, students investigate human impacts and engage in studies that involve environmental monitoring and research. By reflecting on their findings, students become aware of the intended and unintended consequences of human activity, and recognize the need for responsible decision making and action.
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