EARTH / PHYSICAL SCIENCE 416
COURSE OUTLINE
I. Introduction
A. Overview of science and technology
B. Lab equipment
C. Scientific Method
D. Measurements / metric system
Chapters covered: 1 & 2. A foundation unit with emphasis on methods and
measurements to be used in science classes in all high school level courses.
Approximately 5 class sessions.
II. Geology
A. Elements
B. Atomic structure
C. Periodic Table
D. Minerals
E. Rocks
F. Weathering and erosion
G. Maps
Chapters covered: 3-5, 7-12. In this unit we will illustrate and discuss the
structure of the atom. We will differentiate between minerals and rocks and
relate that information to identifying and explaining the processes that
change the earth’s surface. Topographic maps will be described and
displayed, then read by the students. Approximately 60 class sessions.
III. Physical Geography
A. Earth’s Surface
B. Plate Tectonics
C. Earthquakes and volcanoes
Chapters covered: 13, 14, 15, & 16. This unit describes the internal forces
of the earth that are responsible for the constant movement of the earth’s
crust. Approximately 35 sessions.
IV. Oceanography
A. Physical ocean
B. Currents
Chapters covered: 17, 18, & 19. In this unit we will discuss the physical
properties of seawater: salinity, density, and composition. Students will be
able to describe the ocean floor features and the relationship between winds
and currents. Approximately 20 class sessions.
V. Astronomy
A. Universe
B. Sun and solar system
C. Earth’s moon
D. Earth movement, time and magnetism
Chapters covered: 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, & 25. This unit establishes earth’s
place in the universe. We will discuss the movement of the earth within the
universe and its relationship to time, temperatures and the seasons. We will
diagram the layers of the sun and relate the importance of solar energy to
earth. We will identify other members of the universe and classify them by
their release of energy. We will relate the rotation and revolution of the
earth to the phases of the moon and the tides on earth. Approximately 30
class sessions or as time allows.
VI. Meteorology
A. Atmospheric conditions
B. Atmospheric disturbances
Chapters covered: 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31. We will identify and diagram the
layers of earth’s atmosphere and describe the disturbances that occur within
those layers. Approximately 25 class sessions or as time allows.
**Note**: Environmental Science issues will be addressed throughout the
year.