1. The past earth history indicates that the earth has not been static.

a. Discuss the theory of plate tectonics and how it has altered the physical structure of the earth.

b. Describe and discuss how the resulting changes in the physical earth have contributed to selection pressures that result in biodiversity.

2. In the face of environmental changes, some species survive others become extinct.

a. Describe the process of natural selection that contributes to survival of species.

b. Identify and discuss at least two variables that contribute to a species survivorship.

3. Environmentalists argue that wild species have value.

a. What is instrumental value? Provide examples that illustrate and explain.

b. What is intrinsic value? Provide examples that illustrate and explain.

4. The Nature Conservancy in its report on “The State of U.S. Species” has concluded that approximately one-third of the 20,000+ species surveyed are either threatened or endangered.

a. What is biodiversity and the major reasons for its decline?

b. How does U.S. and international public policy protect biodiversity from decline?

5. Using a statistical model ex: Chi Square prove or disprove an experimental hypotheses.

6. Using a biodiversity index (SW) calculate and discuss the biodiversity of two ecosystems.