Earth Science Print
Earth science begins with studying the Earth and its composition. The course is a survey of the spheres of the Earth. It includes plate tectonics which includes earthquakes and volcanoes. Natural resources, both renewable and non-renewable are studied, including the methods to conserve the resources. Continuing away from Earth, the course includes a study of the Sun, moon, and the planets. A comparison of the Sun with other stars is included in the study of the universe.
Course Objectives
After completing the course, students will be able to:
- Define scientific terminology in order to foster the ability to read, interpret, and understand scientific literature.
- Develop and demonstrate an understanding of fundamental scientific principles.
- Relate the study of Earth sciences to the world in which we live.
- Become aware of and be able to discuss several major environmental issues which affect the health of their community.
- Develop an appreciation for the natural processes that occur on Earth and how they impact the environment.
Lesson 1: Earth Science and Composition of Earth
- The Nature of Science
- Mapping our World
- Matter and Change
- Minerals
- Igneous Rocks
- Sedimentary and Metamorphic Rocks
Lesson 2: Surface Processes on Earth
- Weathering, Erosion, and Soil
- Mass movements, wind, and glaciers
- Surface water
- Groundwater
Lesson 3: The Atmosphere
- Atmosphere
- Meteorology
- The Nature of Storms
- Climate
Lesson 4: The Oceans and The Dynamic Earth
- Earth’s Oceans
- The Marine Environment
- Plate Tectonics
- Volcanoes
- Earthquakes
Lesson 5: Geologic Time
- Fossils and the Rock Record
- Precambrian Earth
- The Paleozoic, Mesozoic, and Cenozoic Eras
Lesson 6:Resources and the Environment and Beyond the Earth
- Earth Resources
- Energy Resources
- Human Impact on Resources
- The Sun-Earth-Moon System
- Our Solar System
- Stars
- Galaxies and the Universe