Overview

This final active learning exercise allows students to think about the multiple layers of ecological study we have learned about in the last 2 modules. It also serves to pull together many of the concepts covered not only in Biology II all semester but also makes connections back to material from Biology I (remember photosynthesis anyone?!). The "Why Can't We Build a Biosphere" case study exposes students to the groundbreaking yet flawed mass scale ecological experiment called Biosphere 2. While Biosphere 2 did not turn out quite like the designers imagined, what scientists have learned and continue to learn from it illuminates what we still need to explore and understand in Biosphere 1, otherwise known as Planet Earth!

Read This

Review the textbook readings associated with Ecology (Modules 12 & 13).

Video Watch these videos before April 26th.

Presentation Biosphere Slides

Activity Ecological Footprint Calculator

Think Active Learning #5 Discussion Questions

Assessment Active Learning #5 Quiz