The second edition of A Laboratory Manual for Introduction to Environmental Science emphasizes the scientific method. Instructors can use this manual to develop in their students solid laboratory/ field skills, through a collection of new and classic experiments and activities. The manual stresses quantitative skills, with included step-by-step instructions for the more difficult calculations. Each lab activity starts with an interesting quote and most end with a variety of relevant post-lab questions, designed to stimulate critical thinking. A useful appendices section includes a guide on how to correctly write a lab report, a section on “green living,” a safety contract/ waiver, and a useful example of a dichotomous key.
The Scientific Method
An Introduction to Environmental Science and Basic Laboratory Skills
The Microscope
Information Literacy
Basic Statistics
Sampling Strategies and Forestry Measurements
Conservation History: Rachel Carson’s Silent Spring
Human Population Explosion: Population Dynamics
Human Population Growth and Survivorship
Energy Conservation, Air Pollution, and Kilowatt Ours
Lichens and Air Pollution
Energy Resources
Fossil Collection and Analysis
Biodiversity and the Biodiversity Crisis
Soil Analysis Part 1: pH, Nutrients, Conductivity
Soil Analysis Part 2: Physical Properties and Indicators
Water Quality and Fecal Coliform
Water Quality and Dissolved Oxygen
Dissolved Oxygen Determination with the Winkler Method
Toxicology and Aquatic Toxicity
Storm Water Runoff
Water Quality and Benthic Macroinvertebrates
Geographic Information Systems
Solid Waste