ES Module 12 : Soil and Agriculture
Lesson 1 : Soil Degradation and ConservationStandard(s): SC.912.L.17.19 Describe how different natural resources are produced and how their rates of use and renewal limit availablility; SC.912.L.17.20 Predict the impact of individuals on environmental systems and examine how human lifestyles affect sustainability.
Objective(s): (1) Explain three processes by which soil forms; (2) Describe the four horizons that make up a soil profile; (3) Describe some practices that can lead to soil erosion and some that can prevent it; (4) Identify the causes and effects of desertification; (5) Explain how irrigation and pesticides use can cause soil pollution; (6) Discuss the activities of US and international agricultural organizations. Essential Question: What is soil? How do erosion, desertification, and soil pollution affect the productivity of soil? Vocabulary: soil, parent material, bedrock, weathering, soil horizon, soil profile, soil degradation, intercropping, crop rotation, cover crop, shelterbelt, tilling, terracing, contour farming, overgrazing, desertification, irrigation, salinization, pesticide. Assignment(s): Cornell Notes 12-1; Soil Degradation and Conservation GP & IP |
Lesson 2 : Agriculture and Food ProductionStandard(s): SC.912.L.17.15 Discuss the effects of technology on environmental quality
Objective(s): (1) Discuss the beginnings of agriculture; (2) Explain the importance of industrial agriculture and the green revolution; (3) Identify three types of pest control; (4) Explain the importance of pollinators to agriculture. Essential Question: How has agriculture evolved? Vocabulary: traditional agriculture, yield, industrial agriculture, green revolution, biological pest control Assignment(s): Cornell Notes 12-2; Agriculture and Food Production IP |