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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. What health problems can be caused by high levels of contaminants in a normal household?

2. Which statement is the best explanation for why sports shoes are produced outside the U.S.?

3. Which statement is NOT an example of recycling as we know it?

4. What do the authors claim is the key problem in recycling products?

5. Which is an example of a material that is downcycled?

Short Essay Questions

1. What do the authors suggest for a solution to more efficient home designs, as opposed to the International Style of architecture?

2. Compare the ideas of less-bad and completely positive design.

3. Describe one of Bill and Michael's ideas for completely positive design.

4. Explain what the authors mean by "brute force."

5. Describe what causes "sick building syndrome" and name some of the associated health effects.

6. Explain why the authors say that eco-efficiency is not possible.

7. Describe the negative consequences the Industrial Revolution has on the environment and human health.

8. Explain the focus and attitude of the Industrial Revolution.

9. What do both Bill and Michael conclude about trying to improve products and industry?

10. Describe how the authors use soap as an example of designing products for "worst-case" scenarios.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Write an essay to examine how common household objects can pose a threat to health and the environment. Cover the following three points in your essay.

1. Give examples of some common objects that can be harmful to human health and the environment.

2. Describe how chemicals can be released from objects as they are used or decompose in the environment.

3. Explain how materials can contain chemicals that are banned from use in the United States.

Essay Topic 2

Write a three-part essay to summarize the experience and early inspiration for each of the authors.

Part 1. Describe the childhood and education of each author.

Part 2. Explain the significant event in each author's early career that became his inspiration to create positive designs.

Part 3. Describe how the authors meet their goals in creating their new company.

Essay Topic 3

Describe the effect that industrialization of agricultural systems has had on food supplies around the world.

Part 1. Explain what has happened to food supplies in Egypt since the industrialization of agriculture. What natural system has typically maintained Egyptian agriculture? Why has it been eliminated?

Part 2. Describe some traditional agricultural practices that have been replaced by industrial agriculture.

Part 3. Describe the costs and benefits of modern agricultural practices on society and the environment.

(see the answer keys)

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