Earth and Space Science

• Develop and use a three-dimensional model of the Moon phases.

• Apply the scientific method to Earth and space science investigations.

• Construct a model of the solar system, and explain how its parts interact.

• Develop and use a model to describe the role of gravity in the universe.

• Explain the cyclic patterns of the seasons, the lunar phases, and eclipses of theSun and Moon.

• Compare and contrast properties of planets, moons, stars, asteroids, and comets.

• Describe the interactions of energy between the four spheres of Earth.

• Develop a model to describe the cycling of Earth’s materials during weathering and erosion.

• Explain the role of water and wind in shaping Earth’s surface.

• Compare the physical properties of minerals: hardness, color, luster, and streak.

• Develop a model that describes the cycling of Earth’s materials and flow of energy during the rock cycle.

• Use historical data to explain the positions of the continents and the formation of

volcanoes.

• Explain particle motion of matter and the composition of substances.

• Develop a model of the water cycle and use it to explain larger geological processes.

• Use evidence to explain that natural geological processes result in uneven distribution of Earth’s natural resources.

• Use modeling of ocean currents to explain geological processes in the ocean.

• Describe how the uneven heating of Earth affects its weather and climate.

• Use data from weather maps to explain the motion of air masses.

• Use data collection tools to draw conclusions about current weather conditions.

• Collect data to show how the mixing of air masses causes weather changes.

• Develop and use a model to explain how landforms affect the weather and climate.

• Model the greenhouse effect using temperature as a dependent variable.

• Explain how current trends in carbon dioxide levels affect Earth’s climate.

• Analyze evidence of climate change, and present your findings.

• Determine the effectiveness of different methods of addressing climate change.

• Build a model of an ocean, and design features to protect shorelines from a tsunami.

• Use historical evidence of natural hazards to determine the disaster risk of a region.

• Build a seismograph model and engineer a model building that can withstand an

• earthquake.

• Analyze data to explain how technology can limit the risk of damage from natural hazards.

• Explain how the growing number of humans and their use of natural resources affect Earth’s systems.

• Design methods to reduce the negative impact that humans have on the environment.