Course Profile   The Environment and Resource Management (CGR4M), Grade 12, University/College Preparation, Public

 

Unit 3:  Impact Assessment and Environmental Protection:

                   Monitoring Change

Time:  25 hours

 

Activity 3.1 | Activity 3.2 | Activity 3.3 | Activity 3.4

 

Unit Description

Throughout this unit, students identify and explore issues related to the management of the environment and resources at the local, provincial, national, and international levels. Students apply an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) template to model ways that environmental or resource management issues may be analysed. Analysis of an international environmental and resource management issue such as air quality lead students to a series of one-on-one debates. Students write a Position Paper on an international environmental issue. Students review and assess the effectiveness of Canadian environmental legislation produced by local, provincial, and federal governments for the sustainability of a specific resource. A summative activity, designed to reinforce the steps of the planning process and how it applies to managing change, will take the form of a student role-playing activity. In this simulation of an arbitration hearing, groups of students represent the major interest groups in a land use dispute over development in the local area. This model may be applied to a local study appropriate to the geographic location of the student. Students continue to add to their Environmental Database.

Unit Synopsis Chart

Activity

Time

Learning Expectations

Assessment/Evaluation

Tasks

3.1
What is an Issue?

4 hours

GIV.01, UC1.04, GI1.04, GI2.03, GI2.09

Diagnostic (K/U)
Formative (T/I)
Teacher checklist

Placemat Activity Organizer

E.I.A. template brainstorming

3.2
International Environmental and Resource Management Issues

7 hours

UCV.03, GCV.01, GCV.02, GCV.03, UC2.02, UC2.05, GI2.02, GI2.03, GI2.09, GC3.01

Teacher-formative
(C/A, T/I)
Summative Peer Evaluation Rubric Summative Teacher Rubric

Class discussion Debate

Position paper

Article summary

Graphic organizer

3.3
Local, Provincial and Federal Policy concerning Environmental Issues

7 hours

UCV.02, UCV.03, UCI.03, UC2.01, UC2.02, UC2.03, UC2.05, UC3.05, GI2.07, GI2.08, GI2.09, GI2.04, GI2.05, GI2.06, GI3.01

Diagnostic (K/U)
Formative (T/I, C/A)
Teacher checklist Summative Teacher Essentials of Geotechnology Rubric

Class discussion Article summary Geotechnologies Gathering/ Analysis

Graphic organizer

3.4
Culminating Activity – A Local Study: A Lesson in Impact Assessment and Environmental Protection: A Simulation

7 hours

UCV.01, UC3.01, GI2.09, GI2.05, GI2.03, GI3.01, GI3.02, GI3.03, GIV.03

Teacher Summative Evaluation-Rubric for Presentation
Opinion Letter
(K/U, T/I, C, A)

Simulation Presentation Letter to Editor

K/U = Knowledge/Understanding     C = Communication      T/I = Thinking/Inquiry     A = Application

Activity 3.1: What is an Issue?

Time:  4 hours

Description

Students review the concept of brainstorming and the definition of what is an issue. Students complete a Placemat activity of environmental and resource management issues. The teacher introduces the steps of an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), and the students apply an EIA template to an individual environmental or resource management issue of their choice.

Strand(s) & Learning Expectations

Strand(s):  Human-Environmental Interactions, Global Connections

Overall Expectations

GIV.01 - use geographic skills, methods, and technologies to gather, analyse, and synthesize information on environmental and resource management issues and concerns.

Specific Expectations

UC1.04 - demonstrate an understanding of the purpose and nature of environmental impact assessment studies;

GI1.04 - demonstrate an understanding of the geographic inquiry process;

GI2.03 - use graphic organizers to analyse and synthesize data;

GI2.09 - use written, oral, and visual communication skills to present the results of geographic inquiry and analysis effectively.

Prior Knowledge & Skills

Students refer to the Culminating Activity 2.7 in Unit 2 and review the relationship between environmental degradation on human health or the impact of an introduced species into an environment.

Planning Notes

Teachers supply students with a Placemat Activity Sheet (one for every group of 4) Appendix 3.1.1, and a copy of the EIA template Appendix 3.1.2. Supplies of poster paper and markers are required.

Teaching/Learning Strategies

1.   Appendix 3.1.1 can be used for a brainstorming activity known as the Placemat. Transfer the template to large sheets of chart paper. Students should be divided into groups of 4, with the paper centred on the table between them. When the teacher signals the beginning of the activity, each student shall record as many environmental or resource management issues in the quadrant as they can in the allotted time (3 minutes). Each group then compiles a master list of issues as they have defined them. The teacher leads the class in an attempt to define what an “issue” is, and what constitutes an “environmental or resource management issue.” Groups re-evaluate their lists and eliminate all “non-issues,” then group the remaining issues as either “environmental issues” or “resource management issues.” Groups would then briefly share their lists with their classmates.

2.   Using a video such as Environmental Impact Assessment: Process and Potential have the students develop an EIA template, or use the one provided in Appendix 3.1.2.

3.   Each student chooses one ‘issue’ from the Placemat Activity Sheet which must be either an environmental or a resource management issue. Students then use their issue to complete the template.

4.   Students refer back to Activities 2.5 and 2.6 and consider the environmental principles initiatives for sustainability, and their implications for the environment and the economy of their issue. A risk assessment and evaluation of the state of disaster preparedness should also be included in the template for each issue.

5.   As part of the debriefing process for this activity, students should be encouraged to evaluate the EIA process by considering the following:

·         Can EIA be an effective way of protecting the environment?

·         Can EIA be objective? If not, is this a problem?

·         Are communities given enough chance to be involved in EIA?

·         How can students as individuals become involved in EIA? Do you see this as a worthwhile thing to do? Why or why not?

·         Do you agree with the decisions made in each sample study? Why or why not?

·         Do you think that EIA can make a difference to the decision made?

·         How can the EIA process be improved?

·         What is the role of EIA? Should it address whether specific projects should go ahead, or how they should be developed?

Assessment & Evaluation of Student Achievement

This activity is largely diagnostic and is meant as a review of Unit 2.

The evaluation is formative, with the students submitting their EIA template for a mark.

Accommodations

This activity is group-oriented, which should accommodate the ESL and special education students. Teachers should structure the groups to accommodate these students.

Resources

Environmental Impact Assessment: Process and Potential. Classroom Video, CAN 002 009 618

Appendices

Appendix 3.1.1 – Placemat Activity Sheet

Appendix 3.1.2 – Environmental Impact Assessment Template

Activity 3.2: International Environmental and Resource Management Issues

Time:  7 hours

Description

The teacher leads a discussion on the issue of global air quality and supplies students with summaries of the Montreal, Rio, and Kyoto Air Quality Protocols. In a timed activity, students working in pairs review and summarize the information into a graphic organizer. Following a teacher-led discussion on the effectiveness of the global air quality initiatives, students complete an inquiry into the impact of air quality controls on either a developed or developing nation. Students stress in their research the need for balance between human needs and environmental protection. Following a series of small group debates on the effectiveness of the international air quality protocols, students submit a two page position paper on an international environmental issue of their choice, evaluating the effectiveness of efforts being made to address global environmental concerns.

Strand(s) & Learning Expectations

Strand(s):  Human – Environmental Interactions, Global Connections

Overall Expectations

UCV.03 - evaluate a variety of ways to resolve environmental and resource management concerns on the local, regional, and global scale;

GC3.01 - predict the effects of climate change on a selected region of the world;

GCV.01 - analyse environmental and resource management issues on a global scale;

GCV.02 - analyse the relationships between global population growth, accelerating consumption of resources, and sustainability of ecosystems on a global scale;

GCV.03 - explain the efforts of the international community to deal with environmental and resource management issues and evaluate their effectiveness.

Specific Expectations

UC2.02 - explain ways to improve the balance between human needs and the protection of natural systems;

UC2.05 - evaluate efforts by individuals and groups to achieve solutions to environmental problems;

GI2.02 - explain how information may be biased, and identify the types and sources of information that are relevant to particular inquiries;

GI2.03 - use graphic organizers to analyse and synthesize data;

GI2.09 - use written, oral, and visual communication skills to present the results of geographic inquiry and analysis effectively.

Prior Knowledge & Skills

Students research and participate in a debate. Students produce an individual position paper on one international environmental issue. It is assumed that students will have prior experiences in research and debating skills.

Planning Notes

·         The teacher supplies students with summaries of the Montreal, Rio, and Kyoto Air Quality Protocols.

·         The teacher supplies students with an Air Quality Protocol graphic organizer Appendix 3.2.1. Teachers will also need copies of the Small Group Debate Appendix 3.2.2; a Peer Evaluation Rubric Appendix 3.2.3; and a Rubric for Supported Position Paper Appendix 3.2.4

Teaching/Learning Strategies

1.   Review/Introduce the Montreal, Rio, and Kyoto Air Quality Protocols. Have students review the summaries in pairs and complete the graphic organizer (Appendix 3.2.1) with the key aspects of each protocol. This is a timed activity of 30 minutes. (Teachers make time adjustments to meet all students needs and abilities.) The teacher should lead class discussion on the Global Issue of Air Quality, and record on poster paper or the blackboard the responses to the following questions:

·         What is the international community doing?

·         How effective have the students been in their efforts?

Students record in their notebooks the class consensus on the issue.

2.   Students are asked to research the impact of the Air Quality Protocols on either a developed or developing nation stressing the theme of the balance between people and their environment and the need to balance human needs and environmental protection. Students should be aware and identify possible bias in the information on this issue.

3.   The teacher organizes a series of small group debates on the issue. Students are divided into groups of three and assigned the letters A, B, or C. There will be a total of three debates during the class, with each student eventually required to argue the affirmative and the negative of the resolution, and to act as a peer evaluator. After each debate, the students should be rotated so that they never debate the same person twice, i.e., all students designated A remain in place while all Bs rotate clockwise and all Cs rotate counter-clockwise.

 

Affirmative

Negative

Evaluator

Debate 1

A

B

C

Debate 2

B

C

A

Debate 3

C

A

B

The teacher debriefs the debate by asking the class to discuss and draw conclusions from the following questions:

·         How can we improve the balance between people and the environment and environmental protection?

·         What are the implications of future technologies?

·         What are the causes and effects of environmental change?

·         What are the international solutions to environmental problems?

·         What changes does the international community have to apply in order to protect the environment?

4.   The teacher reviews the concept and production of a Position Paper. Students produce and submit a two-page position paper on an international environmental issue of their choice, evaluating the effectiveness of the efforts being made to address global environmental concerns.

Assessment & Evaluation of Student Achievement

·         Pairs organized and class discussion and recording of the conclusions: The focus is to identify the students’ ability to understand concepts, and understand the relationship between concepts (international commitments and implementation of the air quality protocols)

·         Formative assessment ensuring students are aware of the need to critically analyse research sources.

·         Formative evaluation in the form of peer evaluation of the debate Appendix 3.2.3

·         Summative teacher assessment of the Position Paper Rubric Appendix 3.2.4

Accommodations

Students in the ESL program may benefit from a mini-lesson that identifies key vocabulary terms for the reading and research activity. Limit the number of language-based resources used in class and focus on the student skills of organizing information correctly.

Accommodations should also be made for students who have difficulty recording and/or synthesizing information. Individuals with these needs could be grouped with students with strong skills. Students may also do an oral presentation for the position paper.

Resources

Chiras, Daniel D., et al. Natural Resource Conservation: Management for a Sustainable Future. 2001. ISBN: 0130333980

WorldWatch Briefing “Buenos Aires Conference on Climate Change Treaty”
– http://www.worldwatch.org/alerts/pr981020.html re: Kyoto Protocol

Rising Sun, Gathering Winds: Policies to Stabilize the Climate and Strengthen

Economies – http://www.worldwatch.org/pubs/paper/138b.html re: ‘upcoming’ Kyoto Protocol

Alternative Fluorocarbons Environmental Acceptability Study (AFEAS), “Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer,” 2000 – http://www.afeas.org/montreal_protocol.html

Environmental Action Timeline – http://edugreen.teri.res.in/explore/timeline.htm

United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), “Guide to the Centerpiece of the Rio Earth Summit” – http://www.unfccc.de/resource/beginner.html

The European Commission, Kyoto Protocol – http://europa.eu.int/comm/environment/climat/kyoto.html

Appendices

Appendix 3.2.1 – Air Quality Protocol Graphic Organizer

Appendix 3.2.2 – Small Group Debates

Appendix 3.2.3 – Peer Evaluation Rubric for One-On-One Debate

Appendix 3.2.4 – Rubric for Supported Position Paper

Activity 3.3:  Local, Provincial and Federal Policy concerning
                                    Environmental Issues

Time:  7 hours

Description

The teacher leads a review of the levels of Canadian Government and the process of drafting and enacting legislation as found in the Grade 10 Civics course. Students are supplied with summaries of national, provincial, and local legislation pertaining to the environment and resource management. Students summarize key concepts using a graphic organizer. The teacher reviews basic cartographic principles and the use of geotechnologies, including Geographic Information Systems, satellite maps, and aerial photographs. Students apply geotechnology to the analysis of the impact of environmental and resource management on a rural/urban case study.

Strand(s) & Learning Expectations

Strand(s):  Human-Environment Interactions, Understanding and Managing Change

Overall Expectations

UCV.02 - analyse the purpose and effects of current and evolving environmental legislation and regulations at the local, provincial, national levels;

UCV.03 - evaluate a variety of ways to resolve environmental and resource management concerns on the local, regional, and global scale.

Specific Expectations

UC1.03 - explain how environmental policies can affect the economy;

UC2.01 - explain selected environmental protection principles and initiatives, and predict their implications for a sustainable environment and economy;

UC2.02 - explain ways to improve the balance between human needs and the protection of natural systems;

UC2.03 - evaluate the implications for the future of developments in selected areas of technology;

UC2.05 - evaluate efforts by individuals and groups to achieve solutions to environmental problems;

UC3.05 - assess the level of risk from natural or human-caused disasters in the local community and identify requirements for personal and community preparedness;

GI2.04 - interpret maps showing environmental and resource management concerns on local, regional, national, and global scales;

GI2.05 - produce original maps, sketches, and/or photographs to illustrate the results of geographic inquiries on environmental and resource management issues;

GI2.06 - use statistical methods to effectively analyse data related to the environment and resource management;

GI2.07 - apply geo-technology effectively to the collection and analysis of data related to environmental and resource management concerns;

GI2.08 - use field research skills to collect information about environmental and resource management issues;

GI3.01 - use maps, aerial photographs, satellite images, and geographic information systems to analyse cause and effects of environmental change.

Prior Knowledge & Skills

Students are creating computer-generated maps, but they still need to be reminded of basic mapping conventions and skills (components of a map, use of colour, units in legend, etc.). Students should understand terminology related to the information that is to be mapped. In addition, students need a basic understanding of geotechnologies including satellite images and aerial photographs.

Planning Notes

The teacher directs student inquiry on the Web to locate and summarize the National, Provincial, and Local environmental legislation. Students may review Grade 10 Civics for information on legislation. Students may access the information on the Web. The teacher supplies students with a Graphic Organizer Appendix 3.3.1. The teacher supplies students with Appendix 3.3.2 – A Resource Management Organizer, Appendix 3.3.3 – Land Use Conflict in The Holland Marsh, and Appendix 3.3.4. – GIS Activity Rubric.

Teaching/Learning Strategies

1.   In pairs, students research and review the Federal, Provincial, and Local Environmental Legislation related to a specific issue, and complete the Environmental Legislation Graphic Organizer
Appendix 3.3.1. The teacher leads a discussion of the impact of the environmental legislation by the three levels of government, and the implications for sustainability. How effective is the legislation from each branch of government?

2.   Student responses are recorded on poster paper or the board and record the class conclusions in their notebook. Students research the roles and responsibilities of each level of government as they relate to a specific resource management issue in Canada. Issues that might be considered include: sanitary landfills, wind power, logging in provincial or federal parks, developing either a provincial or federal park, expansion of existing gravel quarries. Students summarize their research using a graphic organizer, Appendix 3.3.

3.   The teacher debriefs Appendix 3.3.2 by leading a class discussion using the following questions:

·         How do the three levels of environmental policies affect Canada’s economy, e.g., job creation, environmental protection, and sustainability of resources?

·         What are the implications of future technologies on Canada’s environment and resources?

·         Identify and evaluate the effectiveness of groups that have specific interests in protecting and promoting a sustainable economic environment for Canada.

·         Students record in their notebook the class consensus on the issues.

4.   The geo-technology activity, Appendix 3.3.3 as a suggested example, focuses on the use of Geographic Information Systems and satellite imagery to analyse land-use conflict. Depending on the abilities and background of the students, the teacher may find it necessary to review basic cartographic principles, and the fundamentals of G.I.S. and satellite image analysis.

·         As an introduction, the teacher provides a brief overview of the geographic, historic, and economic significance of selected land-use conflicts in other Ontario locations that are available on Atlas of Ontario Program CD.

·         Students use the Ministry-licensed software, ArcView 3.2 and data and shapefiles from ArcCanada and the ATLAS of Ontario Program CDs to complete the activity.

·         The sample (generic) geotechnology activity Appendix 3.3.3 – Land Use Conflict in the Holland Marsh, is assessed using Appendix 3.3.4. This model could also be applied to other land-use examples in Ontario.

Note: If teachers do not have access to computers for this activity, students can be provided with print copies of the images and maps necessary to complete this activity.

Assessment & Evaluation of Student Assessment

Formative teacher assessment of graphic organizers

Summative teacher assessment of the geotechnology activity

Accommodations

·         For exceptional students, review the student’s IEP and determine if particular accommodations are required. Organize pairs so that students with strong skills can complement students who may experience difficulties.

·         If students’ writing skills are weak, they may orally communicate the research in front of their class, once the teacher has reviewed the information.

Resources

‘Sustainable Solutions,’ The Nature of Things. CBC Video. #wof89-07 48

Environment Canada – www.ec.gc.ca/eco/main_e.htm

Government of Ontario – www.gov.on.ca

“Neglecting Mother Nature.” Canada and the World Backgrounder. March 1998. p. 22-23.

The Atlas of Ontario Program. 2001 ESRI Canada. 2001

MapRelections – http://plasma.ycas.yorku.ca/mapref/

Appendices

Appendix 3.3.1 – National, Provincial, and Local Environmental Legislation Graphic Organizer

Appendix 3.3.2 – Resource Management Issue: Graphic Organizer

Appendix 3.3.3 – Land Use Conflict in the Holland Marsh

Appendix 3.3.4 – GIS Activity Rubric

 

 

 

Activity 3.4:  Culminating Activity: A Local Study:

                          A Lesson in Impact Assessment and Environmental Protection:
                           A Simulation

Time:  420 minutes

Description

Students are now in a position to analyse a number of factors that contribute to human and environmental interaction, and have an understanding of the process of managing change. Students participate in a role-playing simulation based on a development application for a sensitive environmental area. In the simulation, students represent the major interest groups concerned with the debate. A public hearing is to be held where representatives of the groups present their arguments with evidence to support their views to an arbitration panel, made up of their peers. The student arbitration panel submits a decision. In response to the decision of the arbitration panel, students write an individual reaction in the form of a Letter to the Editor from the point of view of their group, which is submitted for assessment. As a wrap-up to this unit, a class discussion is held focussing on the effectiveness of the arbitration process in protecting natural environments.

Strand(s) & Learning Expectations

Strand(s):   Human-Environment Interaction, Understanding and Managing Change

Overall Expectations

UCV.01 - evaluate the impact of economic, social, political, and technological change on natural environments;

HEV.01 - demonstrate an understanding of how humans are in an integral part of an ecological system and how human activity has short-and long-term effects on the natural environment;

HEV.02 - analyse and evaluate interrelationships between the environment, the economy, and society.

Specific Expectations

GI2.03 - use graphic organizers to analyse and synthesis data;

GI2.05 - produce original maps, sketches, and/or photographs to illustrate the results of geographic inquiries on environmental and resource management issues;

GI3.01 - use maps, aerial photographs, satellite images, and geographic information systems to analyse causes and effects of environmental change;

GI3.02 - synthesize ideas presented in a round-table discussion on a selected environmental issue, make recommendations, and rank possible solutions;

GI3.03 - develop focusing questions and apply geographic methods and technologies to conduct an independent geographic inquiry on a sustainability or resource management issue.

Prior Knowledge & Skills

Students will have the opportunity to apply the skills and knowledge that they have acquired throughout Unit 3.

Planning Notes

·         The teacher prepares background material for student use on the area to be studied. These should include:

·         a description of the area, its features and its environmental significance

·         a description of the environmental problem

·         a brief outline of the position of stakeholders

·         suggestion about where to find further information (press, periodicals, websites, etc.)

·         The teacher prepares Appendix 3.4.1 – A Local Study Simulation, Appendix 3.4.2 – Supported Opinion Letter to the Editor.

Teaching/Learning Strategies

1.   The students are provided with overview materials describing the local area to be studied and the issues related to development. (See Planning Notes.) Relevant websites are provided for further research. Students submit a précis of the articles to the teacher for assessement.

2.   Groups research their roles for the simulation, prepare briefs, and develop presentation materials (visuals).

3.   A Public Hearing is held and the Arbitration Panel announces its decision.

4.   The teacher debriefs this activity by leading a discussion based on the following questions:

·         Prepare a chart to summarize the arguments that your opponents used to state their positions on this issue.

·         Which of the opposing viewpoints did you find most convincing? Give reasons.

·         Which of the opposing viewpoints did you find the least convincing? Give reasons.

·         Did you agree with the decision of the Arbitration Panel? Why or why not?

·         If you were in the position to make the final decision on this issue, what would you decide?

·         Many issues are solved through the arbitration process. Is this an effective way to solve disputes over environmental issues? Explain your answer.

Students submit, for assessment, a response to the Arbitration Panel based on the point of view of their group. This takes the form of a Letter to the Editor.

Assessment & Evaluation of Student Achievement

·         This activity is largely summative and is meant as a review of Unit 3.

·         The assessment is summative using supported Opinion Letter to the Editor Rubric Appendix 3.4.2.

Accommodations

·         Adapt articles for student use; include word lists.

·         Organize groups so that students with strong skills can complement students who may experience difficulties.

Resources

A variety of articles from the local and national press as well as relevant websites should be identified.

Ontario Municipal Board – www.omb.on.ca

Ontario Municipal Board. Your Guide to the Ontario Municipal Board. Queen’s Printer for Ontario. (1994) ISBN 0-7778-1589-3

“Urban Growth.” The Nature of Things. CBC Video #wof93-04

“Lost in the Suburbs.” The Nature of Things. CBC Video #wof97-04

Appendices

Appendix 3.4.1 – A Local Study: A lesson in Impact Assessment and Environmental Protection:
                                                   A Simulation

Appendix 3.4.2 – Supported Open Letter to the Editor Rubric

 


Appendix 3.1.1

Placemat Activity Sheet

 

Student A

 

 

Student B

 

Environmental and Resource
Management Issues

 

 

 

Student C

 

 

Student D

 


Appendix 3.1.2

Environmental Impact Assessment Template

“Environmental impact assessment, as a national instrument, shall be undertaken for proposed activities that are likely to have a significant adverse impact on the environment and are subject to a decision of a competent national authority.”

(Declaration Principle 17 - Earth Summit, Rio de Janeiro, 1992).

Applying EIA successfully in environmental management depends on the commitment of developers and decision-makers, and the involvement of communities.

Choose one Environmental or Resource Management issue for analysis. Do an Environmental Impact Assessment of the issue using the eight steps listed below:

Issue: ______________________________________________

Steps

Principles

Specific Examples

Step 1:
Initiate Project

·         present idea for project

·         decide what type of EIA must occur

 

Step 2:
Identify Issues

·         gather information from all parties

·         Government

·         Community

·         Developer

 

Step 3:
Develop Alternatives

·         consider all alternatives

·         site

·         design technologies to reduce impact

·         ‘do nothing’: options

 

Step 4:
Predict Impacts

·         positive impacts

·         negative impacts

 

Step 5:
Analyse Impacts

·         determine best solution

 

Step 6:
Report Findings

·         formal report: Environmental Impact Statement

 

Step 7:
Make a Decision

·         decision made, usually by some level of government

 

Step 8:
Monitoring

·         project must be monitored to evaluate success of EIA, and to determine if changes need to be made to either the project or future proposals

 

Appendix 3.2.1

Air Quality Protocol Graphic Organizer

Montreal Protocol

Rio Protocol

Kyoto Protocol

Key Aspects

Key Aspects

Key Aspects

 

 

 

 

Effects

Effects

Effects

 

 

 

 


Appendix 3.2.2

Small Group Debates

Debate Topic

Be it resolved that: “International Air Quality Protocols have been successful in balancing global environmental protection and human needs.”

Name:

Name:

Affirmative Speaker (6 minutes)

Negative Speaker (6 minutes)

Evaluator records the most significant arguments below.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Evaluator records the most significant argument below.

Rebuttal (3 minutes)

Rebuttal (3 minutes)

Evaluator records each successful rebuttal below.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Evaluator records each successful rebuttal below.

Summation (2 minutes)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Summation (2 minutes)


Appendix 3.2.3

Peer Evaluation Rubric for One-on-One Debate

 

(Formative Assessment)

 

Criteria

Level 1
(50-59%)

Level 2
(60-69%)

Level 3
(70-79%)

Level 4
(80-100%)

Understanding/ Knowledge

of the topic being debated/ supporting arguments

- displays limited understanding of the topic supported the arguments with very few relevant facts or with irrelevant facts

- displays some understanding of the topic supported arguments with some relevant facts

- displays considerable understanding of the topic supported arguments with relevant facts

- displays thorough understanding of the topic supported arguments with many relevant facts

Thinking/ Inquiry

quality of rebuttal

- rebuttal is mostly ineffective

- rebuttal is somewhat effective

- rebuttal is effective

- rebuttal is highly effective

Communication (Oral)

- communicates orally with limited effectiveness

- communicates orally with some effectiveness

- communicates orally with considerable effectiveness

- communicates orally with a great deal of effectiveness

Application

- knowledge previously gained is transferred to the debate with limited effectiveness

- knowledge previously gained is transferred to the debate with moderate effectiveness

- knowledge previously gained is transferred to the debate in an effective manner

- knowledge previously gained is transferred to the debate in a highly effective manner

Note: A student whose achievement is below Level 1 (50%) has not met all the expectations for this assignment or activity

 

Student Name:                                                                          Evaluator Name:

Overall Level:                                                                           Strengths:

Comments:


Appendix 3.2.4

Rubric for Supported Position Paper

 

(Assessment of Student Work)

 

Criteria

Level 1
(50-59%)

Level 2
(60-69%)

Level 3
(70-79%)

Level 4
(80-100%)

Knowledge/ Understanding
Understanding of the environmental issues
GCV.02, GCV.03

- demonstrates a limited understanding of the issues

- demonstrates some understanding of the issues

- demonstrates a considerable understanding of the issues

- demonstrates a high degree of understanding of the issues

Thinking/ Inquiry
Use of critical thinking skills to evaluate solutions to environmental problems
VC2.02, VC2.05

- applies creative thinking skills in writing a position paper with limited effectiveness

- applies creative thinking skills in writing a position paper with moderate effectiveness

- applies creative thinking skills in writing a position paper with considerable effectiveness

- applies creative thinking skills in writing a position paper with a high degree of effectiveness

Communication
Communicates information through writing
GI2.02

- communicates information through writing a position paper with limited effectiveness

- communicates information through writing of the position paper with some effectiveness

- communicates information through writing of the position paper with clarity

- communicates information through writing of a position paper with a high degree of clarity

Application
uses information to suggest and evaluate solutions to environmental problems
GI2.02, GI2.03

- shows limited insight in applying findings to the issues

- shows some insight in applying findings to the issues

- demonstrates good insight in applying findings to the issues

- clearly and creatively shows insight in applying findings to the issues

Note: A student whose achievement is below Level 1 (50%) has not met the expectations for this assignment or activity.

 

Student Name:                                                                          Overall Level:

Comments:                                                                                Strengths:

Areas to Review Next Steps:

 


Appendix 3.3.1

National, Provincial and Local Environmental Legislation Graphic Organizer

 

Issue: ______________________________________________________

 

 

Federal

Provincial

Local

Legislation details

 

 

 

 

 

Evaluate the effectiveness of the legislation

 

 

 

Implications for Sustainability for the Environment

 

 

 

Implications of Sustainability for Resource Management

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Appendix 3.3.2

Resource Management Issue Graphic Organizer

Issue: ________________________________________________________

 

 

Federal

Provincial

Local

Effectiveness of the Legislation

 

 

 

 

 

Implications for Sustainability of the Specific Resource Management Issue

 

 

 

 


Appendix 3.3.3

Land Use Conflict in the Holland Marsh (Generic Example)

 

The Holland Marsh of south-central Ontario is an area of intensive agriculture. As a result of housing developments, it is also an area that is also experiencing increasing pressures from urban growth. To preserve the Holland Marsh in its current state, it will be necessary to develop and implement an urban growth plan.

The student assumes the role of an urban planner hired by the Town of Newmarket. The task is to develop a sustainable development plan for the Holland Marsh and its surrounding area. Each student generates a report that defines the existing area of the Holland Marsh, identifies the areas where significant urban encroachment exists, and makes suggestions as to how these problems can be resolved. The final report must include annotated maps, and must outline a clear plan for a sustainable future.

 

Tasks

1.   Open the image file and the feature data for the Holland Marsh from the Atlas Ontario CD-ROM.

2.   Create a new polygon to define the area of the Holland Marsh.

3.   Compare the road patterns on the image captured in 2001 with the road patterns in the feature data mapped ten years earlier. Describe the patterns of urban growth that you observe. Speculate as to why development has occurred as it has.

4.   Conduct an inquiry to determine the populations of Newmarket and Bradford. Determine the area of these two communities by creating new polygons on the image, then calculate their population densities.

5.   The sizes and shapes of the lots on the concession roads surrounding the Holland Marsh are quite different from those observed on the marsh itself. Give reasons for the differences.

6.   One way to change patterns of urban growth is to re-route traffic. Identify specific roads that could be re-routed, and create a new theme(s) to show your proposed changes.

7.   Carefully observe the drainage patterns in the area. How can you distinguish between rivers that occur naturally and drainage ditches which are man-made (made by humans)? How would the drainage patterns impact upon your plans for future development?


Appendix 3.3.4

Global Information Systems Rubric for Assessment of Case Study

 

Criteria

Level 1
(50-59%)

Level 2
(60-69%)

Level 3
(70-79%)

Level 4
(80-100%)

Knowledge/ Understanding

Demonstrates knowledge of impact of legislation on environment

VCV.02, VCV.03

- little understanding of relationships between key concepts was evident

- some understandings of relationships between key concepts was evident

- considerable understanding of relationships between key concepts was evident

- thorough understanding of relationships between key concepts was evident

Communication

Map design and conventions used to demonstrate concepts

GI2.04, GI2.05

- a few map essentials are present in the layout

- some of the map essentials are used in the layout

- most of the essentials are present in the layout

- all map essentials are present in the layout

Thinking/Inquiry

Demonstrates an effective and appropriate use of GIS software to perform simple analytical operation

GI2.06, GI2.07

- few of the specific operations necessary to perform an analysis have been accomplished

- some of the specific operations necessary to perform an analysis have been accomplished

- most of the specific operations necessary to perform an analysis have been accomplished

- all of the specific operations necessary to perform an analysis have been accomplished

Application

Synthesis or Conclusion drawn from data

VC2.01, VC2.03, VC2.05

- conclusions, predictions and/or connections were made with limited clarity and logic

- conclusions, predictions and/or connections were made with some clarity and logic

- conclusions, predictions and/or connections were made with considerable clarity and logic

- conclusions, predictions and/or connections were made with a high degree of clarity and logic

Note: A student whose achievement is below Level 1 (50%) has not met the expectations for this assignment or activity.

 

Student Name:                                                                          Overall Level:

Comments:                                                                                Strengths:

Areas to Review:                                                                      Next Steps:


Appendix 3.4.1

A Local Study: A Lesson In Impact Assessment and Environmental Protection:
                            A Simulation

Simulation Problem

The Ontario Municipal Board has called in a panel of arbitrators to make a decision on whether or not to approve development on the selected site. It has called a public hearing where the various interest groups can voice their opinions.

In this simulation students play the roles of participants involved in the debate over the development of the local area. At the hearing, each group presents its arguments and evidence to support its point of view, followed by the Arbitrator’s decision. The class discusses the effectiveness of the arbitration process and submit a response to the arbitration decision through a letter to the editor.

Interest Groups presenting arguments at the meeting include:

·         Developers

·         Local Governments

·         Ontario Government – Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing, and the Ministry of the Environment

·         Local residents

·         Environmental Agencies (Non-governmental Organizations - NGOs)
Interest Group Instructions:

·         Groups will research the issues in role.

·         Prepare their brief/presentation – must include visuals (Each presentation should be no more than 15 minutes in length).

Arbitration Panel

Your job will be to:

·         prepare background research that appreciates all viewpoints;

·         hear all arguments, analyse the situation, and make a decision that considers all factors;

·         prepare a final report that explains your decision based on present and future considerations;

·         use formal and legal language – this is a formal hearing.


Appendix 3.4.2

Supported Opinion Letter to the Editor Rubric

Categories

Level 1
(50-59%)

Level 2
(60-69%)

Level 3
(70-79%)

Level 4
(80-100%)

Knowledge/ Understanding

Quality of Information to Support Opinion

OCV.01

- limited information included to support the opinion

- some information included to support the opinion

- considerable information included to support the opinion

- a high level of information included to support the opinion

Knowledge/ Understanding

Relevance and Accuracy of Information selected

OCV.02

- demonstrates limited knowledge of relevant information

- demonstrates some knowledge of relevant information

- most information was relevant and accurate

- information was relevant to the topic and contained accurate facts

Communication

Communication Skills effective use of written work and illustration

GI2.03, GI2.05, GI3.01

- written work demonstrated limited clarity

- written work demonstrated some clarity

- written work demonstrated considerable clarity

- written work demonstrated a high degree of clarity

Thinking/Inquiry

Critical Thinking Skills to synthesize and focus ideas

GI3.02, GI3.03

- critical thinking skills applied with limited effectiveness

- critical thinking skills applied in a moderately effective manner

- critical thinking skills applied in a considerably effective manner

- critical thinking skills applied in a highly effective manner

Application

Logic of Opinion based on relationship between the environment, economy and society

HEV.02

- opinion demonstrates limited logic

- opinion showed some logic

- opinion showed considerable logic

- opinion showed a high degree of logic

Note: A student whose achievement is below Level 1 (50%) has not met the expectations for this assignment or activity.

* Number of points expected at each level may vary.

Student Name:                                                                          Overall Level:

Comments:                                                                                Strengths:

 

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