Requirements:For this unit’s portfolio, you will create a research-based presentation. You can choose to use the Connexus prompt (How does human activity affect the environment?), the topic and research from your argumentative essay, or another topic you like.

You must cite at least three credible sources
You must include a slideshow or visual (I’d assume it would take at least seven slides to include all of your information, but more or less is possible depending on your style or presentation–see the template for ideas)
BASIC SLIDESHOW TEMPLATE
You must create the presentation (record yourself in video, voice, over, or some other function that allows the viewer to engage with your visuals and topic)

Types of presentations:
Speech with intermittent visuals
Presentation with you in the frame and slideshow screen-shared
Presentation/visuals with voice over recording

Possible mediums for visuals:
Google slides, keynote (Apple), or powerpoint (Microsoft)
Canva
Prezi
Powtoon

1 answer

Creating a research-based presentation on how human activity affects the environment is an engaging and informative task. Below is a detailed outline to help you structure your slideshow, along with suggested content for each slide, and tips for presentation formats.

Slideshow Outline

Slide 1: Title Slide

  • Title: "The Impact of Human Activity on the Environment"
  • Your Name
  • Course/Unit Title
  • Date

Slide 2: Introduction

  • Brief overview of what will be covered.
  • Explanation of the importance of understanding human-environment interactions.
  • A statement: “Human activities, from industrialization to agriculture, have significantly influenced our planet’s ecosystems.”

Slide 3: Major Human Activities Affecting the Environment

  • List and briefly describe:
    1. Deforestation
    2. Pollution (air, water, soil)
    3. Urbanization
    4. Climate Change
  • Visual: Infographic showing statistics on deforestation rates, pollution levels, etc.

Slide 4: Case Study 1: Deforestation

  • Explain deforestation’s causes (agriculture, logging, urban development).
  • Highlight consequences: loss of biodiversity, disruption of carbon cycle.
  • Source: Cite a credible source (e.g., National Geographic, World Wildlife Fund).

Slide 5: Case Study 2: Pollution

  • Describe types of pollution caused by human activity (plastic waste, industrial emissions).
  • Discuss health impacts and environmental damage.
  • Visual: Images of polluted environments or graphs showing pollution trends.
  • Source: Cite a research article or government report.

Slide 6: Case Study 3: Climate Change

  • Explain how human activities (burning fossil fuels) contribute to climate change.
  • Discuss effects such as rising sea levels, extreme weather.
  • Visual: Graphs showing temperature changes over time.
  • Source: Cite a climate study or report (e.g., IPCC).

Slide 7: Positive Human Interventions

  • Discuss conservation efforts, renewable energy use, and sustainable practices.
  • Highlight case studies of successful initiatives (e.g., reforestation programs, clean energy projects).
  • Visual: Before-and-after photos, statistics showing improvement.

Slide 8: Call to Action

  • Encourage viewers to engage in eco-friendly practices (reduce, reuse, recycle).
  • Provide examples of how individuals can make a difference.
  • Quote from an environmental activist or organization.

Slide 9: Conclusion

  • Recap key points discussed.
  • Reiterate the importance of addressing human impact on the environment.
  • Final thoughts: "Our choices today shape the environment of tomorrow."

Slide 10: Works Cited

  • List three or more credible sources used in the presentation in proper citation format (APA, MLA, etc.).

Presentation Tips

  • Format Choice:

    • For a speech with intermittent visuals, present each point verbally while showing relevant images or quotes.
    • For a presentation with you in the frame and slideshow screen-shared, use a webcam to enhance engagement.
    • For voice-over recording, narrate the slideshow while each slide transitions automatically.
  • Engagement:

    • Ask rhetorical questions to stimulate thought (e.g., "What can we do to help reduce pollution?").
    • Use visuals that complement and enhance your spoken content, avoiding text-heavy slides.
  • Practice:

    • Rehearse your presentation multiple times to ensure smooth delivery.
    • Time yourself to keep your presentation within the allotted duration.

Suggested Tools for Creation

  • Google Slides for ease of collaboration and cloud access.
  • Canva for beautiful design templates and visuals.
  • PowerPoint for its advanced features and familiarity.
  • Prezi for a dynamic storytelling experience.

With this outline and tips, you'll be well-prepared to create an effective and informative presentation on the impact of human activity on the environment! If you have any specific questions about any section or need help with visuals, feel free to ask!