The huge variety of species on Earth may be in danger. In recent geological history, a species with terrible capacity for destruction has arrived that may destroy the biosphere as we know it. That scary organism is us as humans. The term biodiversity refers to the variety of different species found in a given area. With the human ability to take over an area for farming and building cities, we have begun to cause the extinction of thousands of species. The big question is, does it matter?

Some think that biodiversity is important biologically speaking because variety is what allows species to survive hard times. Doing away with variety may only make species die out faster.

Others think that biodiversity is important because they find the variety of living things on Earth to be aesthetically pleasing. Others think it is morally or ethically wrong to allow the extinction of species. Some attempt to create social standards that support their thoughts regarding maintaining biodiversity.

To other people, the idea of maintaining biodiversity simply makes economic sense. It is true that our food comes to us from living things. Maintaining biodiversity will allow us more choices for food as human populations increase on Earth.

Written Arguement:

The statements above about biodiversity barely begin to touch the surface of the issues relating to biodiversity. Your task will be to select an argument with regard to maintaining biodiversity and convince your classmates that it is a valid argument.

1. In the paragraphs above, some words were in bold green text. Re-examine those paragraphs and decide which kind of argument you would select. If you think the idea of preserving biodiversity is silly, choose which argument you think is the silliest and work to prove it is wrong instead of supporting it.
2. Create a persuasive arguement for the topic of your choice. You may choose to use any of the following formats:
   • Write a five or six paragraph essay.
   • Write a persuasive letter to the editor of your local newspaper.
   • Create a video promoting your topic.
   • Design a web page to share your views.
3. Share your arguement with your teacher, a parent or guardian, friends, and/or classmates.