May 22nd - Thursday - Environmental Science

 Environmental Science

May 22nd - Thursday

Choose one of the following and write an essay of no fewer than 300 words on …

1. Name some steps Pacifica can take to reduce the number of animals killed by cars on our roads.
2. Describe the dangers of using poison when trying to control the rodent population locally and show alternatives.
3. Explain how Climate Change will impact the supply of fresh water in the Bay Area and steps we can take to save water and slow Climate Change.
4. Describe the problem with plastic pollution filling Earths oceans and how communities, like Pacifica - which are located next to the Pacific Ocean - can help reduce the amount of plastics and micro plastics in our water.
5. Review the ways we studied to make passive energy saving that is built into a home and why, going forward, it’s important to have homes that do not depend on fossil fuels for heating and cooling.

May 20th - Environmental studies - Bees and our Tiny Home

 Part of our Small House planning involves choosing some landscaping that will support bees, birds, and other wildlife.

Honeybees play a critical role in pollination, which helps plants grow, breed, and produce food. However, honeybee populations have been declining over recent years due to various threats. Understanding these challenges is essential to protecting these important insects and the environment.

Major Challenges Facing Honeybees:

• Pesticides: Chemicals like neonicotinoids can harm bees' nervous systems, making it hard for them to navigate or reproduce.
• Habitat Loss: Urban development and monoculture farming reduce the availability of diverse flowering plants and nesting areas.
• Climate Change: Changes in temperature and weather patterns disrupt blooming times and reduce food availability.
• Parasites & Diseases: The Varroa destructor mite is a major parasite that weakens bees by feeding on them and spreading viruses.
• Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD): This mysterious phenomenon causes the sudden disappearance of worker bees, leaving behind a queen and a few nurse bees.

Slides or Google Doc - One slide per question please. Use a picture that reflects and depicts the information. In your question or answer.

1. What is pollination and why is it important?
   
   
2. Name two pesticides that harm bees. How do they affect bee health?
   
   
3. Describe one way climate change affects honeybees.
   

4.  Make a plan for a garden that would support honeybee health. Include:

• A variety of flowering plants (name 3+ species)
• A small water source
• Areas free of pesticides
• A space for wild or native bee nesting
  
• 5.  Explain Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD) in your own words.
  
• 6. Why do you think it's important for humans to protect honeybee populations?
  
  7. What actions can farmers or individuals take to help honeybees? List at least two.

May 15th - Thursday - Science

 

The Sun

 

Environmental Science - 05.13.2025

Building an Energy Efficient House

Part A: Questions

1. What building material is best known for its insulating properties?

2. What is the primary purpose of insulation in an energy-efficient home?

3. Solar panels work best when installed on roofs that face which direction (in the Northern Hemisphere)?

4. What does the term “passive solar design” refer to?

5. Which of these appliances usually consumes the most energy in a home?
A. Refrigerator
B. Dishwasher
C. HVAC system (heating and cooling)
D. Microwave

Part B: True or False

6. Double-glazed windows help to reduce energy loss.

7. Using LED light bulbs is less energy-efficient than traditional incandescent bulbs.

8. A well-designed roof overhang can help regulate seasonal sun exposure.

9. Energy-efficient homes must be built entirely with recycled materials.

10. Air leaks around doors and windows can significantly reduce a home's energy efficiency.

Part C: Short Answer

11. What are two benefits of building an energy-efficient home?

12. Name two renewable energy sources that can be used in an energy-efficient home.

13. Why is proper ventilation important in an energy-efficient home?

14. What is a smart thermostat, and how does it improve energy efficiency?

15. List one design strategy for each season to improve energy efficiency:

Science notes - 05.13.2025 - Tuesday - Week #35

 

Monday - May 12th - Science Notes - Week #35