Earth Science

Earth Science is a laboratory science course that explores origins and the connections between the physical, chemical, and biological processes of the earth system. Students experience the content of Earth Science through inquiry-based laboratory investigations and focus on topics associated with matter, energy, crystal dynamics, cosmic evolution, and structure, cycles, geochemical processes, and the expanded time scales needed to understand events in the earth system. Earth Science provides the knowledge, skills, and habits of mind needed for problem solving and ethical decision making about scientific and technological issues. Embedded standards for Inquiry and Technology & Engineering are taught in the context of the content standards for the Universe, Energy in the Earth System, Cycles in the Earth System, and Geologic History, Maps, Matter and Minerals, Rocks and the Rock Cycle, Geologic History, Plate Tectonics, and Landforms.

Students explore the physical aspects of earth processes and cycles through open-ended field and laboratory investigations. Understanding the importance of these processes and how they influence humankind enables students to make sound decisions about both their community and the earth’s global environment.

Objectives:

Development of necessary problem-solving skills using the scientific process.

To understand the fundamentals of Earth Science and their applications in everyday life.

Grade calculation

Labs/Projects/research papers: 50%

Class participation: 15%

Homework: 10%

Quizzes: 15%

Examination: 10%

Make-up or late work:

Late work is not acceptable under normal circumstances. In some unavoidable situations like illness late work can be accepted at the teacher's discretion for 60%-90% of the credit.

Scientific method:

This section of the year plan is meant to be taught throughout the year, as a part of each unit

Units covered