Course Description
Earth Science (MS) explores how a number of sciences affect the processes on Earth and in space. In this interactive and engaging course, students study air, water, and the processes that shape the physical world, as well as how human civilization has impacted the balance of nature. Students will begin by learning the method of studying the natural world called the scientific method. Students learn about the modern science behind topics such as continental drift, fossil dating, the cause of the seasons, natural disasters, ocean ecosystems, and alternative energy sources. Students will also examine how human activity affects natural processes and the ways that impact can be reduced. At the end of this course, students have an understanding of and appreciation for earth science and a solid foundation for future science studies.

Course Breakdown

Science and society
The Scientific Revolution
Lab equipment
Scientific method
Scientific theory
Matter
Atoms
Mixtures and solutions
Solids, Liquids, and gases
The rock cycle Geology
Pangaea
Plate tectonics
Paleontology
Fossils
Dinosaurs
Mantle
Mountains, trenches, and islands
Volcanoes
Earthquakes
Mining
Minerals

Course Goals
Describe the importance of Earth science.
Explain the Scientific Revolution.
Describe the importance of the scientific method.
Distinguish between solids, liquids, and gases.
Describe the layers of Earth. Explain methods used to determine the age of Earth.
Describe Earth’s early period and Pangaea.
Identify basics of plate tectonics and the theory of continental drift.
Describe how fossils can help understand science history.
Identify the different parts of Earth’s mantle.