EARTH SCIENCE - GEOLOGY - THE DYNAMIC EARTH

The second section of our geology unit covers chapters four through seven in the text and introduces students to the tremendous forces that continually reshape our planet. Students will be presented the opportunity to gain an understanding of these forces and relate them to the natural occurrences that provide evidence of their existence. By the end of this section students will be expected to demonstrate their understanding of the following concepts by way of tests, activities, papers and labs.

Idea's for further study: Build a two or three dimensional model of a volcano, subduction zone, mid ocean ridge or locked fault. Research the history of earthquakes on the west coast and present findings as to experts ability to predict them. Research from current periodicals the likelihood of a major earthquake on the east coast. Compare and contrast the convection cells of the asthenosphere with those we find in the atmosphere. Write a paper comparing catastrophism with uniforitarianism. Present a timeline as to scientific thought through the ages as it relates to natural catastrophes.. etc.

Mastery of the information presented in this section assists students in their preparation for F.C.A.T. testing by reinforcing the following Sunshine State Standards.

• Strand A, Standard 1: Understand that all matter has observable, measurable properties.
• Strand B, Standard 1: Recognize that energy may be changed in form with varying efficiency.
• Strand B, Standard 2: Understand the interaction of matter and energy.
• Strand C, Standard 1: Understand that types of motion may be described, measured and predicted.
• Strand C, Standard 2: Understand that the types of force that act on an object and the effect of that force can be described, measured, and predicted.
• Strand D, Standard 1: Recognize that processes in the lithosphere, atmosphere, hydrosphere and biosphere interact to shape the Earth.
• Strand H,  Standard 1: Use the scientific processes and habits of the mind to solve problems.
• Strand H, Standard 2: Understand that most natural events occur in comprehensible, consistent patterns.
• Strand H, Standard 3: Understand that science, technology and society are interwoven and interdependent.