Rationale for Forests 11 and 12

The Forests 11 and 12 component of the Forests 11 and 12 curriculum focusses on developing understanding of the interaction of the components of the complex ecosystems that make up BC's forests. This interaction is crucial to understanding how forests affect-directly or indirectly-the lives of everyone in the province. The management of forests is influenced by society's concerns for the environment, the economy, and individual enjoyment of this resource. Forests 11 and 12 explores a variety of perspectives on these forests and how they are managed.

In Forests 11 and 12, students develop critical-thinking skills and personal perspectives by examining the many techniques and technologies used in forest ecosystem management. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on, problem-solving methods suited to the diverse interests and abilities of students. Students learn basic concepts of science applied to forest ecosystems as they participate in a variety of activities, including labs and field trips. To enhance their learning, they visit local forest sites and use local expertise to help them investigate problems relevant to themselves, their schools, and their communities.

Forests 11 and 12 aims to bolster and develop, as part of general education, an ability to identify and solve problems, and a basic knowledge of how science concepts are used in forest ecosystem management. The curriculum also fosters understanding of forests as an integral part of culture and provides a framework for further academic, technical, and career training.

In keeping with this rationale, Forests 11 and 12 seeks to:

introduce students to the nature, scope, skills, methods, and relevance of science concepts as applied to the study of forests
maintain the intellectual integrity of science as it is applied to the study of forests
provide an introductory course suited to the diverse interests and abilities of a wide variety of students (Forests 11)
provide a rigorous follow-up course suitable for students who have a particular interest in further pursuits in this area (Forests 12)

Revised: January 27, 1999

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