Earth Science Summer Reading Assignment

Berlin High SchoolEarth Science Summer Reading Assignment    

Due Fall 2008  

I.       Rationale 
Earth Science is designed to study the physical and chemical components of the Earth.  Students develop an understanding of interactions and interdependence within and between Earth systems and changes in those systems over time.  Environmental concerns have arisen due to human influences on the quality of Earth resources, such as air quality and climate change (ie. Global warming).  To prepare students for discussions on this topic, two articles have been selected for students to read prior to entering Earth Science classes.                                 

 II.    Article Selection:

Article #1  “Change the Forecast for Wildlife Solutions to Global Warming,” National Wildlife Federation, 2005.

Article #2  “The Changing Northeast Climate– Our Choices, Our Legacy,” Union of Concerned Scientists, 2006.

III. Requirements 
Each student will be assessed on their understanding and comprehension of the assigned articles during the first week in September.  

Connecticut State Science standards addressed by these readings are:

9.8  D23             The use of resources by human populations may affect the quality of the environment.
9.9  D25, D26     Some materials can be recycled, but others accumulate in the environment and may affect the balance of the Earth systems.

 IV. Availability 
Copies have been distributed to students in school.  Additional copies are available in the Main Office at Berlin High School, through the school website (www.berlinwall.org), & on reserve at Peck Memorial Library. The article are also available on-line by clicking on the article title above.   
Submitted by webmaster on June 16, 2008 - 3:31pm.