Earth Science Assignments

This one year course explores the foundations of Earth Science in the following related topics / fields: Mapping, Astronomy, Atmospheric Studies, and Geology. Students will have the opportunity for self-assessment as well as for teacher guidance and assessment throughout the course. The course covers scientific terminology, historical and cultural advances in science, vocabulary building, test taking strategies, and several simulated labs, hands-on labs, the essay, and science projects using the scientific method.

This course includes laboratory work, study of specimens, projects, and a thorough understanding of scientific inquiry. Instruction centers around inquiry based learning that is incorporated into class activities.  Learning activities include teacher-lead instruction, group work, student seatwork, interactive notebook entries, project-based learning, and lab exercises with both student-choice and teacher-choice grouping.  Students can expect to start each day with a bell ringer assignment followed by learning activities and/or lecture. At times students will work independently from the teacher in order to achieve student autonomy expected of upper school students.  Classes are structured to utilize every minute for learning and assessing understanding.  Real world application is a daily objective.  Higher-level thinking will be incorporated into each lesson as well as use of technology when applicable to increase student achievement.  Students are expected to participate in all activities and actively engage and ask questions during teacher-led lecture.  Students are also expected to review and study the content covered in class outside of school daily.