Ecology and Zoology

Syllabus for ecology and zoology class

Both classes are taught simultaneously in a full block.

Ecology

Forestry project – identification of trees by leaf structure – usually this is a three week project.
Introduction to ecology – relationships, case studies, logging, endangered species, hunting,
Succession – changing ecosystems, case studies, 2 outside labs.
Food chains and webs in the ecosystem, case studies, predators, coyotes, Owl pellet lab.
The flow of energy through the ecosystem, 2 labs .
Cycles in the ecosystem, carbon cycle, water cycle, nitrogen cycle.
Composition of the air
Weather patterns
Sources of pollution
Chemicals that pollute the air and the effects of air pollution, major lab involving spirometer.
The New Jersey zinc company and disaster in Bhopal
Forecast acid rain and associated labs

Zoology

Classification of animals by phyla, and dissections to identify organs and organ

systems. Extensive introductory section that covers all knowledge learned in biology.