Each passing year, scientists gather and publish more data that graphically reveal the link between population growth and environmental degradation. In Earth In Peril, a map-based tool, gauge the scope and effects, both actual and potential, of the human "footprint" on our planet. This “learning tool” is brought to us by NOVA.

Be A Demographer is a “learning tool” brought to us by NOVA, a leader in science television programming. Today, demographic data continue to foretell dramatic changes ahead, though different countries have starkly different future prospects. In this matching game, students learn more about demographic markers that both reflect a country's culture and population as well as shape its future course.

Google Maps is an incredible technical marvel. When you get to the site, just place your address, a comma, and then your zip code. Hit the search button and within a split second you have a map of your area, but the really amazing part is when you hit the "satellite" button on the far right side of the page. Zoom in and out and pan all over the American continent. An amazing feat from Google.

Good data can be the gateway to inquiry. The name of this "learning tool" is called Tagging of Pacific Pelagics and features the real time data tracking of blue fin tuna, sea turtles, sharks and many other large sea animals. Just click on the tabs at the top to select the type of animal you are interested in. This is an incredible site, full of interesting and accessible data for students to use.

The name of this amazing "learning tool" and web site is Journey North. Data can be a wonderful gateway for inquiry. This tool allows students to follow the migration patterns of monarch butterflies, robins, gray whales, bald eagles and others. When you get to the site just click on the animal you would like to see the migration data of. You can even see who contributed the data. A tremendous site for students.

The name of this "learning tool" is called Global Warming. This web site comes with strong online activities and tutorials that help students understand the concepts and dynamics on this important issue. Virtual Courseware for Earth and Environmental Sciences is an incredible suite of programs & is supported by  the U.S. National Science Foundation & the California State University System. Flash is required. 

The National Weather Service is a division of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (U.S). This site is a treasure trove of useful data for students and teachers. When you get to the site you will see a map of "Warnings and Forecasts". Look to the tabs at the top of this map to explore Graphical Forecasts, National Maps, Radar, Rivers, Air Quality, and Satellite data. 

NASA continues to be a leader in science education. This "learning tool" is called The Great Graph Match. This is designed for teachers to use in classrooms as supplementary, interdisciplinary units. Mission: Biomes is especially appropriate for grades 3 through 8, and is designed to be interactive. This is part of a wonderful web site called Earth Observer from NASA.

The name of this elegant "learning tool" is Conservation Investigation: Seahorses. Students are assigned to investigate the sea horse situation. They travel to the Philippines and see seahorses and their habitat, interview local people, scientists, fishermen, traders, medicine users, and do library research for documents and statistics. Then write a balanced editorial that takes a point of view, respectfully and accurately represents the opposing or alternative attitudes. This wonderful interactive comes to us from the Shedd Aquarium.

This "learning tool" is called Human Numbers Through Time. After you get there just click on the words "Launch Interactive". NOVA, the fantastic science TV series, produced a show called World in the Balance.