We will cover fundamentals of ecology, considering Earth as an integrated dynamic system. Topics include coevolution of the biosphere, geosphere, atmosphere and oceans; photosynthesis and respiration; the hydrologic, carbon and nitrogen cycles. We will examine the flow of energy and materials through ecosystems; regulation of the distribution and abundance of organisms; structure and function of ecosystems, including evolution and natural selection; metabolic diversity; productivity; trophic dynamics; models of population growth, competition, mutualism and predation. This course is designated as Communication-Intensive; instruction and practice in oral and written communication provided. Biology is a recommended prerequisite.

" We will cover fundamentals of ecology, considering Earth as an integrated dynamic system. Topics include coevolution of the biosphere, geosphere, atmosphere and oceans; photosynthesis and respiration; the hydrologic, carbon and nitrogen cycles. We will examine the flow of energy and materials through ecosystems; regulation of the distribution and abundance of organisms; structure and function of ecosystems, including evolution and natural selection; metabolic diversity; productivity; trophic dynamics; models of population growth, competition, mutualism and predation. This course is designated as Communication-Intensive; instruction and practice in oral and written communication provided. Biology is a recommended prerequisite."

Lesson Objective: At the completion of this lesson, students will be able to explain the concept of productivity and analyze the role of investments in physical (e.g. technology( and human capital (e.g. education) to increase productivity. Supplies Needed Presentation 1 Productivity Presentation (found in Task 3) Student Handout 1 Henry Ford and the Model T: A Case Study inProductivity (found in Task 4) Student Handout 2 Productivity Ranking Activity (found in Task 6) Student Handout Answer Key 2 Productivity Ranking Activity (found in Resource Library) Student Handout 3 Investment, Productivity, and Growth Quiz (found in Task 7) Student Handout Answer Key 3 Investment, Productivity, and Growth Quiz (found in Resource Library) Video 1 Productivity Cartoon Meet King Joe (9:26) (found in Task 1)   References: Econedlink: Council for Economic Education. (n.d.). Economic Glossary. Retrieved from http://www.econedlink.org/economic-resources/glossary.php Econedlink Henry Ford Case Study. http://www.econedlink.org/lessons/index.php?lid=668&type=educator MBA dictionary. (n.d.). Retrieved November 15, 2014, from MBAResearch and Curriculum Center YouTube Video Productivity Cartoon, Meet King Joe (1948). Published January 28, 2013

Addresses relationship between technology-related problems and the law applicable to work environment. National Labor Relations Act, Occupational Safety and Health Act. Toxic Substances Control Act, state worker's compensation, and suits by workers in the courts discussed. Problems related to occupational health and safety, collective bargaining as a mechanism for altering technology in the workplace, job alienation, productivity, and the organization of work addressed. Prior courses or experience in the environmental, public health, or law-related areas.