Unit 1:
Scientific Method and Data Analysis
Patterns of Change
Standard Error of Measurement
Density
Topographic Maps & Isolines
Lab Writing
Graphing
Unit 2:
Astronomy
Earth Motions
Rotation/Revolution
Longitude & Time
Solar System & Earth’s Moon
Planetary Motions
Heliocentric vs Geocentric Models
Deep Space
Origin of the Universe
Galaxies & Distance in Space
Evolution of Stars
Unit 3:
Insolation & the Seasons
Transfer of Energy in Atmosphere
Layers of Atmosphere
Ozone & Absorption of Energy
Factors affecting Absorption of Energy
Angle and Duration of Insolation (Latitude)
Causes of the Seasons
Greenhouse Effect
Unit 4:
Weather & Atmospheric Variables
Weather Variables and Patterns
Temperature, Humidity, Air Pressure
Station Models
Weather Maps (Isobar, Isotherm, etc)
Air Masses, Fronts, and Cyclones
Weather Forecasting
Severe Weather & Emergency Preparedness
Hurricanes, Tornadoes, Thunderstorms, Floods
Unit 5:
Climate and the Water Cycle
Water Cycle
Ground Water
Porosity/Permeability/Water Retention
Precipitation vs Evapotranspiration
Types of Climates
Factors that Influence Climate
Climate Change
Human Influence (Global Warming, Ozone Depletion, Deforestation)
Natural Causes: Volcanic activity, orbital variations
El Nino/La Nina
Unit 6:
Rocks and Minerals
Minerals
Formation & Classification of Rocks
(Igneous, Sedimentary, Metamorphic)
Rock Cycle
Mineral Resources and Fossil Fuels
Unit7:
Surface Processes and Landscapes
Weathering & Abrasion
Agents of Erosion: Gravity, Rivers, Ocean Waves, Wind, Glaciers
Patterns of Deposition and Sedimentary Rocks
Landscape Features & Topographic Maps
Unit
8: Dynamic Crust
Patterns of Crustal Activity
(Earthquakes, Volcanoes, Ridges, Trenches, Mountains)
Theory of Plate Tectonics
Earthquakes and Seismic Waves
Geologic Hazards
Unit
9: Geologic History
Development of atmosphere and oceans
Fossil Record and Evolution of life
Geologic Time Scale
Age Relationships (Relative Dating)
Absolute Age and Decay of Radioactive Isotopes