"Pathways to Learning Environmental Science: A Study Guide for Success" is a workbook and study guide designed to be used in conjunction with standard required texts in Environmental Studies courses. Used over the duration of a course it enhances comprehension, increases retention, and improves test scores. The book contains tear-out pages that can easily be attached to class notes or other course materials. Chapters feature questions and fill in the blank exercises, allowing students to check their understanding of the subject matter, and assess their progress early on. Everything in the book is designed to answer the question What do I need to know? .
The fourteen chapters of the book cover the many areas involved in environmental studies, including chemical, physical, biological, and earth science principles, earth sphere, and biomes. Also covered are environmental cycles, material and energy resources, pollution, and environmental laws and regulations.
Each chapter begins with an explanation of the topic to be discussed, and indicates where in a textbook students can find complete discussions, figures, charts and tables. Chapter exercises are presented in multiple choice, fill in the blank, and matching formats, allowing students many opportunities for self-evaluation prior to taking class examinations.
Of special note is the Rap City in Green feature of the book, which reviews major concepts in verse form. The musicality of the verses enhances appeal, and is a highly effective memory aid.
"Pathways to Learning Environmental Science" is an excellent support tool for students in general education Environmental Science courses.
Alan Jacobs received his PhD from Indiana University, Bloomington. Currently he is a Professor in the Department of Geological and Environmental Sciences at Youngstown State University in Youngstown, Ohio where he has taught and conducted research in environmental studies, geology, and public health. In addition to teaching, Dr. Jacobs has served as the Environmental Studies Program Director, Environmental Health Sciences Course Director, and the Department Chair. He is a member of the Geological Society of America, the American Institute of Professional Geologists, and the International Association of Medical Geology. Dr. Jacobs has been a consultant for numerous engineering companies, and is a manuscript reviewer for the journal "Environmental Earth Sciences."