Grade 9 - Science
Earth Science A - Semester 1 (Credit: 0.50)The first three modules of Semester 1 cover Scientific Inquiry, the Structure and Composition of the Universe, and the Features of the Solar System. Students learn the importance of scientific inquiry and how to communicate the results of scientific investigations. They then have material on the formation of the universe, including the Big Bang Theory, the motions of celestial objects, and stellar evolution. The third module covers material related to the Solar System, including features of the Sun and the planets and the movements of Earth. The second three modules of Semester 1 cover Weather, Climate, and Earth’s Water Cycle. Students first learn in Module 4 about the atmosphere and clouds, as well as the factors that influence local and global climate. In Module 5 they continue by learning about weather and air masses, meteorology and storms. Module 6 then discusses the water cycle, including groundwater and ocean features, as well as water scarcity and pollution.
Major Concepts:
Scientific Inquiry includes all the skills and characteristics that scientists need to develop new knowledge.
The universe formed after expansion of very hot, very dense material.
The universe is expanding.
Stars are giant nuclear reactors that transform matter into energy.
The bodies of the Solar System move in predictable ways under the influence of gravity.
Temperature and pressure differences in the atmosphere create distinct global and local climate patterns.
Warm fronts and cold fronts interact with air masses differently to produce predictable weather.
Wind blows on a global scale in wind belts known as the easterlies, westerlies, and trade winds.
Scientists help society predict and prepare for storm hazards.
The water cycle moves Earth’s water between land and the atmosphere.
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