Human Activities that Threaten Biodiversity
Provided by: Khan Academy|Published on: April 27, 2021
Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12, AP
Type: Videos
Subjects: Biology
Authors: Khan Academy
Region: Global
Languages: English
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Learn about our review process →
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Learn about our review process →
Synopsis
- This 12-minute video explains that there is a direct link between human population growth, our use of resources, and the loss of biodiversity on Earth.
- Students will also learn that land-use changes, pollution, invasive species, and resource exploitation lead to decreases in natural habitat and in the variety of species on Earth.
Teaching Materials
Prerequisites:
- The video explains that one of the local factors that contributes to biodiversity loss is the introduction of exotic species, but the concept is not explained in this video. Consider introducing this topic before using this video.
Preparation:
- This video was produced in 2014, so some of the figures might not be up to date. Check any figures you intend to share with students.
Interdisciplinary Connections:
- English Language Arts:
- Read Thomas Malthus's Essay on the Principle of Population and compare the problems that Malthus assumed humans would face in the future with the actual problems humans face today.
- History:
- Students reflect on how technology solved some problems for humans while creating many other problems.
- Ethics:
- Students debate about whether or not humans have a right to take up so much of the Earth's resources.
Extensions:
- Students write reflections or opinion papers about why they think other species of plants and animals should have the right to exist on Earth or why they think areas should be protected to allow for biodiversity to exist on Earth.
Related Resources:
This 12-minute video by the California Academy of Sciences explores multiple ways in which human activities impact biodiversity. The resource begins by introducing concepts of human population growth and resource use before moving on to discussing topics such as habitat loss, pollution, and resource exploitation. This resource covers a range of complex topics, but does so in an approachable and clear manner. This resource is recommended for teaching.
Teaching Tips
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Resource Type and Format
Scientist Reviewed
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Our review process ensures that every resource in our library reflects the current state of climate science.
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