Level: JHS, Basic 7 | Subject: Integrated Science | Strand: Humans and the Environment | Topic: Understanding the Environment
Curriculum reference: NaCCA Basic 7 Integrated Science, Strand 5 (Humans and the Environment). Written from the standard NaCCA topic list. Please check against the curriculum PDF.
1. What is the Environment?
- The environment is everything around us: living things, non-living things and the conditions in which they live.
- Biotic components are living things: plants, animals and microbes.
- Abiotic components are non-living things: air, water, soil, light, temperature.
2. Types of Environment
- Natural environment: forests, rivers, lakes, the sea, mountains.
- Built environment: houses, roads, schools, markets, factories.
3. How Humans Use the Environment
- Farming, fishing, mining and logging for food and materials.
- Water from rivers and boreholes.
- Building homes and roads.
- Rest and recreation.
4. Environmental Problems
| Problem | Cause | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Air pollution | Smoke, vehicle fumes, burning rubbish | Breathing problems, acid rain |
| Water pollution | Dumping waste, galamsey, chemicals | Diseases, dead fish, costly water treatment |
| Soil pollution and erosion | Chemicals, plastic, removal of vegetation | Poor crops, loss of topsoil |
| Noise pollution | Loud music, machines, traffic | Hearing loss, stress |
| Deforestation | Logging, farming, bush burning | Loss of habitats, less rain, erosion |
5. Protecting the Environment
- Plant trees and protect forests and water bodies.
- Keep surroundings clean and dispose of waste properly.
- Avoid bush burning and illegal mining (galamsey).
- Obey environmental laws and use resources wisely.
- Join clean-up exercises and school environmental clubs.
Remember: Living and non-living things depend on each other. We must protect the environment for today and for the future.
Ready to practise?
Education Always (education.inspiringalways.com). Original notes written to follow the NaCCA Basic 7 Integrated Science curriculum.