Page 166 - The Ontario Curriculum, Grades 11 and 12: Science, 2008 (revised)

environmental science, Grade 11 Workplace Preparation SVNE
This course provides students with the fundamental knowledge of and skills relating to environmental science that will help them succeed in work and life after secondary school. Students will explore a range of topics, including the impact of human activities on the environment; human health and the environment; energy conservation; resource science and management; and safety and environmental responsibility in the workplace. Emphasis is placed on relevant, practical applications and current topics in environmental science, with attention to the refinement of students’ literacy and mathematical literacy skills as well as the development of their scientific and environmental literacy.
Prerequisite: Science, Grade 9, Academic or Applied, or a Grade 9 or 10 locally developed compulsory credit (LDCC) course in science
Big Ideas
Human Impact on the Environment
• The biotic elements of an ecosystem include humans.
• Abiotic and biotic factors interact within an ecosystem.
• People have positive and negative effects on the environment, both locally and globally.
Human Health and the Environment
• Environmental factors can have negative effects on human health.
• It is possible to minimize some negative health effects associated with environmental
factors by making wise lifestyle choices and taking other precautions.
Energy Conservation
• The impact of energy production and consumption on environmental sustainability depends on which resources and energy production methods are used.
Natural Resource Science and Management
• Biodiversity is a measure of the health and sustainability of an ecosystem. • Careful resource management planning is necessary to sustain ecosystems.
The Safe and Environmentally Responsible Workplace
• Workplace safety is the responsibility of both employees and employers.
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