Wealth of Life Article

Wealth of Life Article - Questions

Part A: Questions (K/U)

1. Define Biodiversity. What is the relationship between biodiversity and habitat stability? Explain. 2. a. List and describe the three levels of biodiversity recognized by scientists. b. Describe the meaning of each level and state the significance of each to the survival of living organisms. c. How are these levels related to each other? 3. How is biodiversity measured at the ecosystem, local and global levels> 4. What are some evidences of genetic biodiversity> 5. How many species of organisms have scientists identified? Why is the number exact/defined? 6. How does the number of plant species (discovered and undiscovered) affect humans in the fields of medicine? 7. What groups of scientists are responsible for the discovery of new species? What steps are used to identify and name new species? 8. a. How are humans contributing to the high rate of species extinction? b. Describe four ways that scientists are trying to prevent the decline of biodiversity. 9. a. Describe the “bottoms up” approach supported by Medhav Gadgil. b. Why is this approach more effective than the “top down” approach? 10. Describe, with specific examples, the importance of other forms of life to the survival of humans.

Part B: Analyzing the Credibility of the Article

Read the article carefully again and use the following questions as a guide to help you analyze the credibility of the article. Write an analysis of the article including details from the questions below.

1. Where was the article published? Is it from a scientific journal or organization, a reputable newspaper, a popular magazine or a tabloid? 2. Are the sources of the information reported in the article identified? Are these sources specific, named scientists, scientific journals, or scientific organizations? 3. Does the article provide evidence that other members of the scientific community support the claims? 4. Does the evidence for the claims seem sufficient? Is there contradictory evidence that might offset the evidence given for them? 5. Is there any basis for suspecting bias on the part of the source of the information or the writer of the article? If so, explain.