Earth Science involves the study of the features and forces of our planet and its place in the universe. It includes topics in astronomy, geology, meteorology, oceanography, and physical geography. Environmental concerns, energy, earth processes, and the influence of science, technology, and society are significant parts of the program.
Essential Questions:
- How do Earth’s many complex systems interact and what are the costs and benefits of utilizing Earth’s resources?
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Quarter 1 |
Quarter 2 |
Quarter 3 |
Quarter 4 |
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Earth’s Weather & Cosmic Wonders (Units 1-3) |
Earth’s Gem’s: Rocks and Minerals (Units 4-5) |
Shifting and Shaking (Unit 6) |
Resources & The Ocean, Climate Connection (Units 7-8) |
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Focus of the Story |
We begin by revisiting and extending our understanding of weather from Grade 6 including the various systems that influence weather. We then broaden our perspective to examine the characteristics and motion of objects within our universe with a focus on using evidence to describe the interactions among celestial bodies and the role of gravity. |
We then focus back on Earth to explore our planet’s materials and their formation. We learn about the specific processes as well as the physical and chemical properties of different minerals and types of rocks. We learn that different processes, described by the rock cycle, allow rocks to transform. |
We then use this knowledge to examine the interactions resulting from plate movement and surface interactions (e.g., earthquakes, volcanoes, and mountain building). This leads us on a journey of analyzing the tectonic and geologic history of Virginia. |
Our journey concludes by tying together Earth’s important processes and system interactions. We do this by studying resource use, the role of ocean’s as systems, and climate change. We use data and models to forecast the rate of climate change and its future effects on Earth systems. |
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Transfer Goals |
Ask questions driven by curiosity on a given event or process in the natural world based on observations or data. (Thinkers and Inquirers) Analyze and interpret data to determine its validity or usefulness, identify patterns and relationships, and/or draw conclusions. (Thinkers and Inquirers; Knowledgeable) |
Analyze and interpret data to determine its validity or usefulness, identify patterns and relationships, and/or draw conclusions. (Thinkers and Inquirers; Knowledgeable) |
Analyze and interpret data to determine its validity or usefulness, identify patterns and relationships, and/or draw conclusions. (Thinkers and Inquirers; Knowledgeable) |
Plan and carry out investigations or use a design process to answer a question or solve a problem. (Problem Solvers and Value Creators) Communicate results, solutions, or findings to inspire further inquiry and courses of action. (Communicators and Collaborators; Personally and Socially Responsible) |
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Learning Targets |
I can collect evidence for how the motions and complex interactions of air masses result in changes in weather conditions. I can analyze recent research findings to compare and contrast terrestrial and gaseous planets, comets, meteoroids, and asteroids. |
I can identify formation processes by attributes observed in rock forming and ore mineral samples. I can explain how surface processes and Earth’s movement relate to rock formations. |
I can compare different types of plate boundaries and resulting features. I can integrate the rock cycle with plate tectonics theory and determine how this is reflected in the geology of Virginia’s five physiographic/geologic provinces. |
I can use evidence to explain how the availability of natural resources has influenced human activity while forecasting potential issues related to sustainability. I can analyze how ocean currents and the distribution of heat influence atmospheric conditions, global temperatures, and climate. |