Earth Science

Semester A

In the first semester of Science 7, 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. There are lessons on things outside the solar system such as stars, constellations, nebulae, 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.

Semester B

In the second semester of Science 7, study zeros in closer to home: Earth science. The coursework is uniquely integrated and applied to disciplines of study outside of Earth science. Starting with the Earth’s interior students study rocks and minerals, volcanoes, earthquakes, undersea ridges, trenches and mountains and how the study of Earth’s geologic history helps explain these phenomena. On the Earth’s surface students study weathering, soil and erosion as well as water in all its forms the water cycle, oceans and ocean currents. Above the Earth they will study the atmosphere: its composition, air pressure and air movement. This knowledge is then applied to lessons on how human populations are affected by natural resources, renewable and non‐renewable, both on and inside the Earth. These lessons are integrated with lessons that discuss how humans and living organisms are affected by air and water pollution, acid rain, changes in the ozone layer and how these conditions influence biodiversity, habitat loss and species survival. The course is capped off by lessons that take an in‐depth look at the process of technology design giving students a look at how scientists and technical designers work together to achieve common goals. Lastly, students are taught about the kinds of professions that currently exist in the science and technology fields and learn about the necessary academic preparation needed to gain employment in these branches of study.

Semester A

Module 1: Scientific Thinking
Module 2: Discovering Space
Module 3: The Moon
Module 4: Earth’s Place in the Universe
Module 5: The Solar System
Module 6: Humans and Earth

Semester A Syllabus

Semester B

Module 7: Earth’s Materials
Module 8: Earth’s Features and Processes
Module 9: The Atmosphere
Module 10: Water
Module 11: Earth’s Resources and Pollution
Module 12: Human Impact on Earth

Semester B Syllabus