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8 A Cl o s e r Lo o k a t Sp e c i f i c In d e x e s
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Students’
knowledge of
GSMNP increased
significantly.
Knowledge and Awareness of
GSMNP and Biodiversity
Students will develop an appreciation for and knowledge
of GSMNP and natural, wild places.
Students
learned
specifics
about the
park and its
issues (more
students were
able to define
an “exotic”
species), as
well as broader
concepts of
the benefits of
national parks
(recognizing
that parks help
protect plants
and animals and
keep the air clean).
You learn so much by actually being there, experiencing first
hand what you’ve only read about in books.
—Gabe Herrera, Oak Park River Forest High School Senior, IL
100
Knowledge and Awareness for the 2006-2007 School Year
This index is
designed to measure
students’ understanding
of the importance
of biologically
diverse ecosystems.
Also measured
is the student’s
understanding of
the cultural and
natural history
of the Southern
Appalachians, and the
importance of parks’
roles as protectors of
species, culture, and
our natural resources.
Before
After
Students retained
their new knowledge
three months later.
Percentages
80
60
40
Many people once
lived on the land
that is now GSMNP.
Biological diversity refers to
the variety of plants, animals,
and other types of living things.
Indexes
Natural places help
keep the air clean.
Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont | www.gsmit.org