Earth and Space Science (Semester- Live!)

What's the difference between a hurricane and a tornado? Where do rocks and fossils come from? How deep does the ocean go? Why do we have earthquakes and volcanoes in some places, but not in others? Where did the Moon come from and why does it change phases? How did Earth get its gold? Find the answers to these questions and many, many more in "Earth and Space Science!"

In this fun and engaging secondary-level (middle/early high school) course, students will learn all about the world and universe around them. Starting with the study of meteorology in Unit 1, students will examine the atmosphere and weather. In Unit 2, we will focus on the Solar System, life cycles of stars, planets, and other celestial objects. Unit 3 will examine the surface and interior of Earth through the study of geology. Lastly, Unit 4 will focus on oceanography and human impacts on our seas. Please see below for a more in-depth look into each unit!

Unit 1 (Weeks 1-4): Meteorology 
In Unit 1, students will examine the layers of the atmosphere, atmospheric composition and why weather occurs. Students will analyze meteorological forecasts, weather terms and symbols, types of clouds, and the importance of the water cycle. In addition, we will examine severe weather events and human impacts on climate. Students will also analyze the difference between weather and climate as well as the reason for seasons. We will also examine weather forecasting tools and methods.

Unit 2 (Weeks 5-7): Astronomy
In Unit 2, students will examine the motions of the Earth, Moon, and Sun system. Students will learn the causes of tides, Moon phases, day and night, and the changing constellations in the sky. We will examine the Solar System and the planets, as well as moons, asteroids, and comets. Students will also learn about the stellar life cycle that each star undertakes. Students will learn a brief history of astronomy and examine the tools astronomers use to gather information about the Universe.

Unit 3 (Weeks 8-10): Geology
In Unit 3, students will learn all about the processes that form, reshape, and change rocks and the Earth itself. Students will examine the Earth's interior and how convection causes earthquakes, volcanoes, mountains, and tectonic plate movement on the surface. We will examine how the interior of Earth can be classified by layers and how seismic waves are measured. Students will examine how Earth's surface has changed over its history and how weathering, erosion, and deposition continue to change Earth's surface today. Lastly, students will examine how fossils are formed and how geology helps scientists better understand the life that has existed on Earth in the past.

Unit 4 (Weeks 11-12): Oceanography
In Unit 4, students will learn all about the mysterious oceans that cover most of our planet. Like the atmosphere, the ocean can be divided into layers. Students will examine the aspects of each layer and how life survives under the sea. We will learn about hydrothermal vents and the unique life that resides there. Students will examine underwater volcanoes and mid-ocean ridges. Lastly, students will examine the tools used to study the oceans and how humans impact the ocean environment.

Students only need an inquisitive mind, a willingness to learn, and a basic understanding of science. A variety of resources will be used and lessons will be a combination of presentations, short video clips, question-and-answer sessions, activities, demonstrations, and labs demonstrated by me. 

Learner progress will be evaluated through a variety of methods. These include teacher questioning, warm-ups and exit tickets, and other activities. While I will demonstrate labs and concepts for students, they will not be required to complete lab activities. However, I will provide information on each demonstration or lab should you wish to give it a try! 

I'll see you in class!

Mr. Lee

“Somewhere, something incredible is waiting to be known.” – Carl Sagan