Course Description
Forests are a very important natural resource in Pennsylvania. The Forestry class is an introductory class to explore PA forest history, forestry-based careers, tree identification & measurement, forest ecology, and silvicultural topics. Students will complete outdoor exercises including tree identification, tree measurement, and forest analysis. Student skills in the use of forest measurement tools and tree identification keys will be developed. This course counts towards the science credit requirements for graduation.
Core Curriculum Content Standards
Science, Technology & Engineering, and Environmental Literacy & Sustainability (2023)
Life Science
Grades 9-12
- Evaluate the claims, evidence, and reasoning that the complex interactions in ecosystems maintain relatively consistent numbers and types of organisms in stable conditions, but changing conditions may result in a new ecosystem.(3.1.9-12.M)
Environmental Literacy & Sustainability
Grades 9-12
- Analyze and interpret how issues, trends, technologies, and policies impact agricultural, food, and environmental systems and resources.(3.4.9-12.A)
- Evaluate and communicate the effect of integrated pest management practices on indoor and outdoor environments.(3.4.9-12.F)
- Analyze and evaluate how best resource management practices and environmental laws achieve sustainability of natural resources.(3.4.9-12.G)
- Design and evaluate solutions in which individuals and societies can promote stewardship in environmental quality and community well-being.(3.4.9-12.H)
Units
Unit #1 - Importance of Forestry and Careers
Unit #2 - History of Forestry
Unit #3 - Tree Parts and Growth
Unit #4 - Tree Identification
Unit #5 - Forest Mensuration
Unit #6 - Silviculture
Unit #7 - Forest Ecology
Unit #8 - Forest Pests and Diseases
