Earth & Space Science 7A

Description

Course Description

In the first semester students will learn about the scientific method and hone their understanding of using scientific measurements to Earth and Space Science. Also included are lessons on Earth maps and globes including detailed instruction on how to find specific locations using latitude and longitude.

Much of the first semester focuses on space science. Students will learn about Earth movements, seasons, the Moon, tides, solar and lunar eclipses, the Sun and its role as the main source of light and energy in the solar system. They will learn about planets, asteroids, meteors, comets and their orbits and how force gravity holds it all together.

Outside the solar system there are lessons on stars, constellations, nebula, the Milky Way and galaxies beyond.

There have been many recent discoveries in space science. Accordingly, careful attention has been given to presenting the most updated information available in areas of discovery such as stars with planets and the latest methods of detecting them as well as a look at NASA’s most recent Curiosity landing on the Martian surface.

Major Concepts

• Application of the scientific method observation skills to Earth and space studies.
• Learning to measure using units of time and metric dimensions and use of longitude and latitude to pinpoint coordinates on maps and globes.
• Learn the types of bodies that populate the Solar System, their descriptions, names, orbital relationships and relative sizes, compositions and distances between bodies.
• Conceptualize relationships in terms of star systems compared to galactic systems and intergalactic in terms of size and distances measured in metric scales, astronomical units and light years.
• Learn about the methods and technology scientists use to observe and make discoveries about phenomena that exist vast distances from Earth.