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Science

Earth Science Curriculum Guide
Grades 9-10

Objectives

Core Curr.
Content
Standards

Instructional
Activities

Assessment
(Cross-curricular)
(Multi-cultural)

Resources

GEPA
HSPA
Terra Nova

The student will be able to:

1st Marking Period:

Unit I - Structure of a Dynamic Earth

2nd Marking Period:

Unit II - Forces That Attack the Surface
Unit III - Forces That Raise the Surface

3rd Marking Period:

Unit III - Continued
Unit IV - Earth and the Universe

4th Marking Period:

Unit IV - Continued
Unit V - Earth’s History

UNIT I - STRUCTURE OF A DYNAMIC EARTH Earth Science: Earth Science, (D.C. Health) 1994
A. Describe the origin of the Earth using the Protoplanet Hypothesis. 5.11 Classroom discussion of Earth’s formation, including formation of oceans and atmosphere Teacher observation of class discussion Text
B. Describe the layers of the Earth. 5.10
5.5
Labeling diagrams of the Earth.Memorize the two most common crystal elements; Memorize the Earth’s circumference; Practice Eratosthene’s method of measuring the Earth’s circumference; Construct models of Earth’s layers Quiz
c.c.-Geometry-Measuring circumference and alternate interior angles
Text
Text, p. 24, 27
R. II
M. II
C. Identify common minerals by their properties. 5.10 Construct models of crystals and minerals; Determine hardness of minerals; Measure specific gravity of minerals; Memorize Moh’s hardness scale; Identification of unknown minerals through lab tests and comparisons with text c.c.-Chemistry-Construction of molecular models
Teacher Observation
Lab Report
Quiz
Lab Practical
Molecular Model Kits
Text, Hardness Kits, Mineral Kits
M. II
D. Identify two main groups of igneous rocks. 5.10 Laboratory identification of granite and basalt; Making fudge to demonstrate intrusive and extrusive igneous rocks
Special Education:
- Peer tutor, cooperative learning, guided practice,
mnemonics, outline formats of notes & tests.
Lab Report
Lab Practical
Text
Lab Manual
Rock Kits
Holt General Science
E. Identify three main groups of sedimentary rocks. 5.10 Laboratory identification of elastic, organic and chemical sedimentary rocks.
Observe samples of sedimentary features including stratification, fossils, ripple marks and geodes; Field trip-Poricy Park, Middlesex-fossil hunt.
Lab Report
Lab Practical
Teacher Observation.
Text
Lab Manual
Rock Kits
F. Examine common metamorphic rocks and describe how they formed. 5.10 Laboratory identification of metamorphic rocks and comparison with the original sedimentary and igneous rocks Lab Report
Lab Practical
Rock Kits
G. Summarize the formation and breakdown of rocks using the Rock Cycle. 5.10 Diagram the rock cycle and label
Discuss the "Rock Cycle Model"
Write a report about James Hutton
Quiz
Grade the report
Text on objectives A-G
Rock Cycle Model
Library Research
R. II
W. I
H. Describe how air, water, and nutrients are renewed.

5.1

 

Classroom discussion of cycles
Label diagrams of water cycle, CO2 - O2
cycle and nutrient cycle
Teacher Observation
c.c.-Environmental Science-ecosystem cycles
Text R. II
I. Describe source, use, and reserve of common mineral resources. 5.3 Write a report about strip mining
Classroom discussion of mineral uses
Observation of minerals and their ores
Diagram reserves
Field Trip-NJ Mining Museum
Special Education:
- Note taker, tape record instructions, graphic
organizers.
Grade the report
Teacher Observation
c.c.-Social Studies-political and economic implications of mineral reserves
Library Research
Text, Rock Kits
W. I
J. Describe the origin, occurrence and uses of fossil fuels. 5.12 Label diagrams of oil and gas formation
Classroom discussion of environmental impacts; Field trip-PSE&G Electrical Generating Plan
Quiz Text R. II
K. Describe advantages and disadvantages of alternative energy resources. 5.4
5.12
Classroom discussion of alternative energy sources; Lab-construct a solar panel; Guest speaker-PSE&G; Field trip - Rahway Incinerator; Compare solar energy zones of the U.S. Lab Report
Topic Questions
Grade the worksheet
Test on objectives H-K
Text
Lab Manual
Study Guide
R. II
L. Identify the advantages and disadvantages of map projections. 5.4 Comparison of map projections
Class discussion; Attempt to make a flat map of a round object - "Orange Peel Lab"
Teacher Observation
Lab Report
Text
Wall Maps
R. II
M. Use latitude and longitude to locate points on Earth. 5.4 Label a map, Map Activity, p. 124
Calculate the distance covered by 1o and 1’ of latitude; Memorize latitude of NYC
Class discussion of Prime Meridian and International Dateline
Special Education:
- Guided practice, peer tutors, tape text,
breakdown tasks, outline notes.
c.c.-Social Studies (map reading)
Quiz
Teacher Observation
Text R. II
M. II
N. Identify features, determine elevation, and evaluate distance on Topographic Maps. 5.4 Construct a contour map; Construct a map profile; Determine gradient of map profile; Read Contour Maps, Map Activity, p. 125; Write a report comparing methods of cartography
Special Education:
- Peer tutor, cooperative learning groups,
computer map maker, highlight facts, outline
notes, labs/tests.
c.c.-Mathematics-graphing, calculating slope
Lab Report
Grade the report
Text on objectives L-N
Text
USGS Topographic Maps
Library Research
M. IV
R. II
W. I
UNIT II - FORCES THAT ATTACK THE SURFACE
A. Distinguish between chemical and mechanical weathering and identify processes by which each occurs. 5.10
5.12
5.2
Observe chemical and physical weathering; Compare temperature and weathering; Discussion of Cleopatra’s needle Lab Report
Quiz on objective A
Text, p. 144
Lab Manual
M. II
B. Identify the conditions under which ground water surplus, usage, deficit and recharge occur. 5.10
5.5
5.12
Class discussion
Interpreting Water Budget graphs
c.c.-Mathematics-interpreting graphs
Lab Report
Text, p. 164 M. IV
C. Describe the underground regions above and below the water table, list factors that determine water table depth, and explain the importance of the water table. 5.10
5.2
Label diagrams of the water table
Construct a model of the water table
Cause & observe fluctuations in the water table using the "Ground water Demonstrator"
Special Education:
- Peer tutor, cooperative groups, graphic organizer,
structure lab reports.
Lab Report Text
"Ground Water Demonstrator"
R. II
D. Compare and contrast artesian wells and springs with ordinary wells and springs. 5.10
5.2
Label diagrams of wells and springs
Class discussion of well water and perceptions of its purity; Test purity of various well and spring waters
Construct a model of an artesian formation; Observe the effects of contaminants on well water using Groundwater Demonstrator; Write a report on Groundwater Pollution; Label and discuss diagram of desert oasis
Teacher Observation
Lab Report
c.c.-Environmental Science-water testing
Teacher observation of class discussion
Grade the report
Text
Environmental Science
Lab Manual and Lab Aids Kit
Groundwater
Demonstrator
Library Research
R. II
W. I
E. Describe the origin of hot springs, paint pots, geysers and fumeroles. 5.10 Class discuss of video and text
View Video-National Geographic-
Yellowstone National Park
Teacher observation of class discussion Text
Video-National Geographic "Yellowstone"
F. Describe the features of Karst topography. 5.10 Observe pictures and diagrams of Karst Topography; Interpret topographic maps of Karst topography; Field trip-Howe Caverns, NY Lab Report
Test on objectives B-F
Text
USGS topographic maps
R. II
G. Describe the relationship between stream speed, discharge, and carrying power.

5.10

 

Discuss diagrams in text; Observe stream table demonstration #4; Calculate settling rate of particles; Demonstration of Abrasion & discussion
Special Education:
- Outline notes, highlight facts, peer tutor,
tape record text.
c.c.-Algebra-ratios
Lab Report
Teacher observation of discussion
Lab Manual
Stream Table
Text, p. 751
R. II
M. II
H. Explain how rivers form valleys, canyons, and gullies. 5.10 Stream table investigation-Life of a stream #1; View and discuss diagrams and pictures of Grand Canyon, Badlands, gorges; Field trip-Bushkill Falls, PA Lab Report
Teacher observation of discussion
Stream Table
Text
R. II
I. Identify major U.S. drainage basins and NJ drainage basins. 5.10
5.12
Construct a map of major drainage basins, text, p. 186; Identify major NJ rivers; Trace the drainage basin which includes Roselle Lab Report
Grading of maps
Text; USGS Maps
Round McNally Road Atlas; Hagstrom Union County Map
R. II
J. Explain undermining of waterfalls. 5.10 Class discussion of Niagara Falls diagrams; Calculate rate of recession of Niagara Falls; Observation of waterfall recession using stream table #6
Special Education:
- Peer tutors, computer research, computer graphics.
Teacher observation of discussion Text
Stream Table
R. II
M. II
K. Explain the origin of flood plains, meanders, deltas, and alluvial fans. 5.10 Label diagrams of meandering streams
Class discussion of text diagrams
Observe delta formation-stream table #2
Observe alluvial fan formation-stream table #3
Special Education:
- Peer tutor, cooperative groups, guided lab reports.
Teacher observation of class discussion of stream table demonstrations Text
Stream Table
R. II
L. Describe conditions which lead to flooding and methods of flood prevention. 5.10
5.12
5.4
Class discussion of major floods; Guest speaker-flood survivor; View Video - Nova "flood"; Discuss news reports of the flood of 93; Class discussion of flood prevention methods Teacher observation of class discussion
c.c.-Social Studies-Johnstown Flood, economic implications of the 93 flood
c.c.-Environmental Science-flood prevention; Test on objectives G-L
Text
Nova video "Flood"
M. Describe how a glacier forms and moves. 5.10 Construct a model of a glacier
Observe glacial movement-stream
table #9
Lab Report Stream Table
N. Identify features of glacial erosion. 5.10 Label diagrams of glacial erosion features; Construct a map profile of a glaciated slope Grade the profile Text R. II
M. IV
O. Identify features of glacial deposition. 5.10 Observe glacial deposition using stream table; Label diagrams and discuss glacial deposition features
Special Education:
- Peer tutor, cooperative groups, guided lab reports.
Teacher observation of discussion Stream Table R. II
P. Describe several hypotheses for the occurrence of the ice ages. 5.10 Class discussion of the ice ages
Locate terminal moraines on map
Interpret a map of glacial rebound, p. 206
Special Education:
- Peer tutor, record text, outline notes, cooperative
learning groups, computer graphics.
Grade the map
Critical thinking questions, p. 209
Test on objectives M-P
Text R. II
Q. Describe the actions of wind resulting from wind action. 5.10
5.12
Observe and discuss features of wind action; Class discussion of desert sand storms; Label diagrams of sand dunes and dune migration; Compare the effects of moving air on different size particles Teacher Observation
c.c.-Social Studies-The Dust Bowl of the 1930’s
Lab Report
Text
Lab Manual
R. II
R. Identify features of a wind formed wave and compare these with tsunamis. 5.10
5.12
Label diagrams of wave features
Class dis. waves at NJ shore compared with tsunamis; Calculate wave speed
Teacher Observation Text
Student Experiences
R. II
M. IV
S. Name and explain the origin of some shoreline currents. 5.10 Label diagrams of currents; Class discussion of NJ shore currents
Special Education :
- Peer tutors, record text, outline notes, cooperative
learning groups, computer graphics.
Teacher Observation Text
Student Experiences
R. II
T. Describe features of shoreline deposition. 5.10 Label diagrams of shoreline deposition Grade Diagrams Text R. II
U. Describe features and causes of beach erosion and compare methods of erosion prevention. 5.10
5.12
5.2
5.4
Label diagrams of erosion; Class discussion of NJ shore after severe storms; Discussion of beach erosion article; Compare the effects of slope on beach erosion, p. 226; Stream table demonstration of beach erosion; Class discussion of methods of erosion prevention
Special Education:
- Peer tutors, cooperative learning, tape text,
outline facts.
Teacher Observation
Lab Report
Test on objectives Q-U
Student Experiences
Text, p. 219, 226
Stream Table
R. II
UNIT III - FORCES THAT RAISE THE SURFACE
A. Identify the lithosphere plates and describe how they move. 5.10 Label diagrams of plate boundaries
Class discussion; Observe the movement of fluid in convection currents, p. 248
Lab Report Text, p. 248 R. II
B. List evidence of Plate Tectonics. 5.10 Construct Pangaea, using fossil evidence and continental shape; Plot worldwide earthquakes and volcanoes on wall map; Class discussion of polarity reversal and sea floor spreading; Write a report on Alfred Wegener and his theory Grade construction and maps
Teacher Observation
Text
Library Research
R. II
W. I
C. Identify diverging boundaries and their features. 5.10 Label diagrams; Observe and discuss pictures of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge; View video of Iceland
Special Education:
- Cooperative learning, guided notes, computer
reports.
Teacher Observation Text
Video-National Geographic "Born of Fire"
R. II
D. Identify sliding boundaries and their features. 5.10
5.12
Label diagrams; Calculate when LA will move north of San Francisco; View video of California Earthquakes Teacher Observation Text
Video-National Geographic "Born of Fire
R. II
M. II
E. Identify collision boundaries and their features. 5.10 Label diagrams; Discussion of the formation of the Himalayas
Special Education:
- Tape text, peer tutoring, guided diagrams,
highlight facts.
c.c. & m.c.-World Cultures-life in the Himalayan nations Text R. II
F. Identify subduction boundaries and their features. 5.10
5.12
Label diagrams; Discussion of the formation of the Andes; Discussion of the Marianas Trench c.c. & m.c.-World Cultures-life in the Andes, life in the Philippines
Teacher Observation
Text R. II
G. List the ways continents can grow. 5.10 Class discussion; Identify the North American craton on a map
Special Education:
- Tape text, peer tutoring, guided diagrams,
highlight facts.
Teacher Observation
Test on objectives A-G
Text R. II

H. Describe the types and characteristics of magma, lava, and tephra.

 

5.10 Observation of samples; Video of Iceland and Hawaii Teacher Observation
m.c.-Most volcano terminology is in Hawaiian or Japanese
Video-National Geographic "Born of Fire"
I. Describe major types of volcanoes and volcanic eruptions. 5.10
5.12
Label volcano diagrams of shield and cinder cones; Class discussion of the eruption of Vesuvius in 79 AD and its gas cloud; View video of Mt. St. Helens and discuss eruption of cinder cones at subduction boundaries; Discussion and diagrams of hot spots; View video of Hawaiian eruptions of shield cones c.c.-Social Studies-the destruction of Pompeii
Teacher Observation
Text
Video-"Mt. St. Helens"
Video-National Geographic "Born of Fire"
R. II
J. Describe causes and results of famous volcanic eruptions. 5.10
5.12
Class discussion of pictures in text
Class discussion of the 1991 Mt. Pinatubo eruption
Special Education:
- Cooperative learning, guided notes, record
text, word processor.

Class discussion of the 1883 Krakatoa eruption, its massive destruction and environmental impacts; Classroom discussion of why people choose to live near volcanoes; Write a report on the career of a volcanologist
Teacher Observation
c.c.-Social Studies-Mt. Pinatubo’s effect on the US Military
c.c. & m.c.-World Cultures-Life in Indonesia, and the South Pacific
Text
Library Research
R. II
W. I
K. Describe volcanism on Mars and Io. 5.11 Discussion of photo in text; Compare the size of Olympus Mons to volcanoes on Earth Teacher Observation Text
L. Identify igneous intrusions. 5.10 Label diagrams; Use superposition to determine the age of dikes and sills (worksheet) Grade worksheets on dikes and sills
Test on objectives H-L
Text R. II
M. Describe earthquake focus, epicenter, and waves. 5.10 Label diagrams; Plot earthquake frequencies on a US Map Grade Map Text R. II
N. Use P and S waves to locate the epicenter. 5.10
5.2
Construct a model seismograph
Practice using time-travel graphs; Use seismograms to locate epicenter
Teacher Observation
Lab Report
Seismograph Kit
Text
Lab Manual
M. IV
O. Explain the significance of the Moho and Shadow zone. 5.10 Label diagrams; Interpret graphs of seismic wave velocity; Discussion of Critical Thinking section, p. 289
Special Education:
- Highlight important facts, peer tutor, computer graphics.
Teacher Observation Text, p. 280
Study Guide, p. 30
R. II
M. IV
P. Compare causes and resulting damage of famous earthquakes. 5.10
5.12
Class discussion of the 1964 Alaska, 1906 San Francisco, 1989 Loma Prieta, 1911 New Madrid earthquakes; View video of California earthquakes, noting damage due to liquefaction and foundation failure; Design an "Earthquake Proof" building, describing all modifications Teacher Observation Text
Video-Nova
"Predictable Disaster"
R. II
Q. Identify kinds of data being studied for earthquake prediction. 5.10
5.12
View video-noting Japanese Earthquake drills; Class discussion of reliability and ease of use for each method; Write a report describing the career of a seismologist Teacher Observation
Test on objectives M-Q
Video-Nova
"Predictable Disaster"
Text
Library Research
R. II
W. I
R. Identify major mountain ranges and describe how each formed. Label world maps; Label diagrams of each type of mountain (collision, folded, domed, fault block, volcanic, mid-ocean ridges); Interpret topographic maps of all mountain types
Special Education:
- Peer tutor, cooperative learning, computer
graphics, word processor.
Grade Maps
Lab Report
Unit Test
Text
Study Guide, p. 32
USGS Topographic Maps
R. II
UNIT IV - EARTH AND THE UNIVERSE
A. Studying the Universe
(Chapter 20)
1. Describe the function and limitations of optical telescopes. 5.11
5.4
5.2
Label diagrams of optical telescopes showing the pathway of light
Calculate the magnification of increasingly larger mirrors and lenses
Construct a refracting telescope
Simulate spin casting a mirror using glycerine
Class discussion of the Hubble Space Telescope’s construction, problems and successes
Write a report on the career of an astronomer
Field trip to Union County College Sperry Observatory, view the sky through its reflector and refractor
Write an article on 3 different events in astronomy that took place within the past 12 months and discuss it with the class
Determine the best locations the US for an astronomical observatory. List and explain the features of the site chosen
Special Education:
- Cooperative learning, guided practice,
computer research.
Grade Diagrams
c.c.-Mathematics-ratios
Lab Report
Teacher Observation
Grade the report
Teacher observation and grade student’s written summary of trip
Grade the article
c.c.-Social Studies-current events
- Journalism-article writing
Text
Lab Manual
Library Research
Union County College-Amateur Astronomers Club
R. II
M. I
W. I
2. Identify and compare the wave lengths of the electromagnetic spectrum. 5.9 Label diagrams of the spectrum
Memorize the spectrum from longest to shortest wavelength
Quiz Text R. II
3. Describe the uses and advantages of radio telescope arrays. 5.11
5.4
5.9
Class discussion of photo and diagrams in the text, and Chapter 2, p. 375
Compare the accuracy of radio telescopes with short vs. long baselines
Teacher Observation Text R. II
4. Identify and describe discoveries made by telescopes which detect wave lengths other than visible or radio. 5.11
5.9
5.4
Class discussion Teacher Observation Text R. II
5. Name and describe how astronomers use the 3 types of spectra. 5.11
5.8
Construct a spectroscope; Label and discuss spectra diagrams; Class discussion of how astronomers use the information gathered by spectral analysis Lab Report
c.c.-Chemistry-spectral analysis
Text R. II
6. Describe the origin of and uses for the Doppler Effect. 5.11 Write a report on the life and discoveries of Edwin Hubble; Demonstration of the Doppler effect in sound waves; Class discussion of using the Doppler effect to measure the movements of galaxies c.c.-Physics-the Doppler effect
Teacher Observation
Test on Objective 4A
Library Research
Text
W. I
UNIT IV - EARTH AND THE UNIVERSE
B. Stars and Galaxies
(Chapter 21)
1. Identify and locate famous constellations and describe their motions.

5.11

 

Locate stars and constellations on star maps
Use the "Star and Planet Locator" to find major constellations on specific dates and times
Compare the true location of the constellations to what astrologers claim to be your "sign"
Use major constellations to aid in locating others. Label diagrams for each of the seasons
Observe the major constellations for each season
Field trip-Hayden Planetarium NYC
Write a report on the myth associated with a famous constellation
Lab Report
Teacher Observation
Grade Diagrams
c.c.-English & Social Studies-Greek & Roman mythology
Text, p. 392
Star Maps
Star and Planet Locator
Desktop Planetarium
"Bushnell Super Star Machine"
Library Research
W. I
2. Define and use several units which express distances in space. 5.11
5.5
Calculate distances to nearby stars using miles, kilometers, light years and astronomical units; Discuss looking at stars as a way of looking back in time c.c.-Mathematics-ratios, conversions
c.c.-English-reading Science Fiction Time Travel stories
Text M. II
3. Compare the physical and chemical properties of the sun with other stars. 5.11
5.5
Construct a Hertzsprung-Russell diagram; Interpret star characteristics using a Hertzsprung-Russell diagram Lab Report
c.c.-Mathematics-logarithmic graphs
Lab Manual M. IV
4. Compare the life cycles of small, medium, and large stars. 5.11
5.9
Class discussion of the formation and expected life cycle of our sun
Observation of the Great Nebula and Horsehead Nebula in Orion
Memorize the 6 stages in the life cycle of a star; Discuss how the process of fusion halts the collapse of the protostar
Class discussion of the 1987 Supernova
Identify examples of stars at various life cycle stages on a Hertzsprung Russell diagram; Class discussion of newtron stars, pulsars and LGM
Demonstration of how pulsars resemble light houses; Class discussion of the properties, discovery and theories of Black Holes; Identify Black Hole Cygnus X-I on a star map; Write a report on the life and discoveries of Stephen Hawking; Guest Speaker-Nobel Laureat, Dr. Russell Hulce (discovered binary pulsars)
Teacher Observation
Quiz
c.c.-Physics-fusion reactions
Lab Report
c.c. & m.c.-overcoming disabilities
c.c.-Physics, computers-pulsars
Text
Library Research
He spoke at ACHS in 11/94, (Karen Warner can contact him)
R. II
M. IV
W. I
5. Identify and describe types of galaxies. 5.11 Compare diagrams of elliptical, spiral and irregular galaxies; naming examples of each; Find our solar system on a diagram of the Milky Way; Calculate how far the Earth has traveled around our galaxy since major events in Earth history; Class discussion of quasars and the formation of galaxies Teacher Observation
c.c.-World History-dates of major events
Text M. I
R. II
6. Evaluate evidence for the Big Bang Theory. 5.11 Class discussion of the 5 major parts of the theory; Memorize the 5 parts of the theory; Discuss how the Doppler Effect supports the theory; Discuss the background radiation discovered by the Cobe satellite; Review how the positions of galaxies can be calculated for 15 billion years ago Teacher Observation
Quiz
c.c.-Mathematics-rate and distance problems
Test on objective 4B
Text R. II
M. I
C. The Sun & Its Solar System
(Chapter 22)
1. Describe the layers of the sun. 5.11 Label diagrams of the sun; Discuss the discoveries made by Skylab, Solar Max and Ulysses; Chart Sunspot Cycles
Special Education:
- Peer tutor, cooperative learning groups, outline notes.
c.c.-English-Mythology (Ulysses)
Read Homer’s Odyssey
Lab Report
Text
Holt General Science
R. II
2. Identify sources and describe effects of the solar wind. 5.11 Discussion of solar wind, solar flares, auroras and their effects on telecommunications

Teacher Observation

 

Text

R. II

 

3. Describe how the motions of the planets across our sky differ from those of stars and explain the cause of this difference. 5.11 Class discussion of diagrams of retrograde motion; Graph the retrograde motion of Mars; Diagram the phases of Venus, (Chapter 22, p. 411) Teacher Observation
Lab Report
Grade Chapter Questions
Text
Lab Manual
R. II
M. IV
4. Describe the contributions of Copernicus and Galileo to the heliocentric model. 5.11
5.3
Compare heliocentric and geocentric models and how they explain retrograde motion; Discuss the lives of Copernicus and Galileo; Write a report on Copernicus; Write a report on Galileo Teacher Observation
Grade the report
Text
Library Research
R. II
W. I
5. Explain the importance of Tycho Brahe’s work. 5.3 Class discussion of Tycho’s work, working conditions and discoveries
Write a report on Tycho Brahe
Teacher Observation
Grade the report
Text
Library Research
W. I
6. Explain Kepler’s Laws of planetary motion. 5.11
5.3
Construct ellipses and label the focus, aphelion and perihelion; Interpret graphs of ellipses; Label diagrams of Kepler’s 2nd law and relate them to the seasons
Special Education:
- Peer tutor, outline reports and facts, record text.
Discuss the relationship between Kepler’s 2nd law and Newton’s Law of Gravity; Use Kepler’s 3rd law to calculate the planet’s distance and period

 

Teacher Observation
c.c.-Mathematics-graphing ellipses
Lab Report
c.c.-Mathematics-ratios
Test on objective 4C

 

Text, p. 408
Text
M. IV
R. II
M. I
D. The Planets & the Solar System
(Chapter 23)
1. Describe the properties and features of Mercury. 5.11 Compare photos of Mercury and Earth’s moon, explain why they are similar
Class discussion of Mercury’s period, rotation, temperature, gravity, size, and lack of atmosphere; Calculate your weight and age on Mercury
Teacher Observation Text R. II
2. Describe the properties and features of Venus and the means by which this data was collected. 5.11
5.4
Discuss photos of Venus and how they were obtained; Class discussion of Venus’ size, rotation, revolution, gravity, temperature and atmosphere; Discuss the effects of Venus’ atmosphere on the first probes sent their; Construct a model of the Greenhouse effect
Special Education:
- Record text, peer tutor, word processor.

Create a creature which could survive on Venus and is adapted to conditions there. Include details on its habitat food source, and sketch of the creature

Teacher Observation
Lab Report
c.c.-Environmental Science-the Greenhouse Effect
c.c.-English-creative writing
Grade the report
Text
Merrill Earth Science
Lab Manual
Library research on Venus, imagination
R. II
W. I
3. Describe the properties and features of Mars and the means by which this data was collected. 5.11
5.4
Class discussion of Mars’ size, period, rotation, seasons, gravity, temperature, soil, atmosphere, ice caps, volcanoes, and canyons; Class discussion of the possibility of a Mars Colony-including new data from the Biosphere II experiment, and new technology necessary to overcome the lack of water, O2 food, re-supply time. Decide who should go, etc.; Create a Martian (see #4 D2.5 above); Discuss the moons of Mars and the demise of Phobos
Special Education:
- Tape articles, peer tutor, guided notes, computer
graphics, computer research.
Teacher Observation
c.c.-Social Studies-What type of person chooses to become a colonist?
Text, p. 427
Text and library research
R. II
W. I
4. Describe the properties, features and moons of Jupiter and the means by which this data was collected. 5.11
5.4
Class discussion of Jupiter’s size, rotation, period, gravity, rings, temperature, atmosphere, and rings and red spot; View video - "And then there was Voyager-Missions to Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune"; Discussion of new data sent by Galileo probe; Field trip- Goddard Space Center, MD (where Galileo sends its data); Discuss characteristics & photos of Calisto, Ganymeade, Io and Europe
Construct a graph of the positions of the Galilean moons in relation to Jupiter
Read or view 2010 and distinguish science fact from science fiction
Teacher Observation
c.c.-Mathematics-graphing lab report
c.c.-English-science fiction, read Arthur C. Clark’s 2001, 2010, 2060
Written Report
Text
Video - "And Then There Was Voyager"
Discover Magazine and other science journals
Sister Nick, Georgian Court College
Lab Manual
Video "2010"
R. II
M. IV
W. I
5. Describe the properties, features, and moons of Saturn. 5.11
5.4
Class discussion of Saturn’s size, rotation, period, gravity, rings, temperature, atmosphere, and moons
Discuss characteristics and photos of Saturn’s moon Titan; Read and discuss the article "First Food" and debate the probability of life on Titan. Answer the attached questions
Teacher Observation
Grade the questions
Text
"First Food"
R. II
6. Describe the properties, features and moons of Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto. 5.11
5.4
Class discussion comparing and contrasting Uranus and Neptune; Class discussion of Pluto’s characteristics, unusual orbit and moon; Construct a model or diagram illustrating Pluto’s orbit and its moon Teacher observation
Grade the diagram
Text R. II
7. Construct a scale model of the solar system. 5.11 Construct a scale model of the solar system using different scales for distance and diameter Grade the model
c.c.-Mathematics-measurement
Text R. II
M. II
8. Compare the major characteristics of inner and outer planets. 5.11 Construct a chart comparing major features of inner vs. outer planets Grade the chart
Test on the Planets objectives (4D 1-8)
Text R. II
9. Describe the composition, orbit, and behavior of a comet. 5.11 Class discussion of the composition, orbit, and tail of a comet; Class discussion of Halley’s comet and the folklore surrounding it (1910, 1986, 1962); Class dis. of the Shoemaker-Levy comet’s impact on Jupiter
Special Education:
- Record text, peer tutor, cooperative groups,
computer graphics, guided practice, computerize
chart.
Teacher Observation Text R. II
10. Describe the characteristics and possible origin of asteroids. 5.11 Class discussion of asteroid orbit, features, moons; Debate the theories of asteroid origin Teacher Observation Text R. II
11. Describe the types and origins of meteorites. 5.11 Class discussion of meteorites, meteors, meteoroids, and meteorite showers
Chart the best viewing times for major meteor showers
Teacher Observation Text
Star Locator
R. II
12. Explain why meteorite craters are rare on Earth. 5.11 Use Plate Tectonics and knowledge of Earth’s atmosphere to explain the rarity of craters Quiz on (objectives 4D 8-12)
Comets, asteroids and meteorites
Text R. II
E. Earth’s Moon
(Chapter 24)
1. Describe the major goals and accomplishments of the Mercury and Gemini programs. 5.11
5.4
5.3
5.12
Class discussion of the Mercury and Femini programs; Class discussion of the type of person who would become an astronaut
Special Education:
- Peer tutor, record text, outline notes, highlight
facts.
Teacher Observation Text R. II
2. Describe the accomplishments of the Apollo program. 5.11
5.4
5.3
5.12
Draw and label the Apollo spacecraft
View video "The Apollo Moon Landings"; Memorize the date of the first lunar landing and Armstrong’s quote; Calculate escape velocity; Class discussion of the Apollo program; Field trip - National Aerospace Museum
Class discussion of why we went to the moon and why we should go back
Special Education:
- Peer tutor, record text, outline notes, highlight
facts.
Grade Diagram
Teacher Observation
Text
Video "The Apollo Moon Landings"
R. II
3. Describe the accomplishments of the space shuttle program. 5.11
5.4
5.3
5.2
Class discussion of the space shuttle program accomplishments; Diagram the parts of the space shuttle; Discuss who could be an astronaut today - which careers and backgrounds lead to space travel; Write a report about the life of an astronaut; Discuss the components of the space suit, and how it has improved
Discuss the bathroom facilities on the shuttle; Field trip - Space Camp
Special Education:
- Cooperative learning, peer tutor, computer
research, word processor.

- Peer tutor, cooperative learning, guided practice tape text, computer research.

Teacher Observation
Grade Report
Text
Library Research
NASA information packet
R. II
W. I
4. Compare the properties of the moon with those of Earth. 5.11 Class dis. of the moon’s size, gravity, structure, atmosphere, soil; Alter the rules and regulations of Basketball so it could be played on the moon; Calculate your weight on the moon Teacher Observation Text R. II
5. Explain why the same side of the moon always faces Earth. 5.11 Demonstration; Moon problem - which materials should you salvage from your ship to cover 50 miles on the moon to the rescue site? Teacher Observation
Grade the problem
Text
NASA information packet
6. Outline the moon’s geologic history. 5.11 Class discussion; Construct an outline
Compare the moon’s history to Earth’s
Discuss the evidence which supports the most recent theory of the moon’s origin
Grade the outline
Teacher Observation
Text R. II
7. Describe and locate major lunar features. 5.11 Discuss the formation of the maria and the highlands; Describe and locate major craters and seas; Compare the features of the front & back of the moon; Discuss Lunar Folklore - man in the moon, blue moon, full moon, etc.; Locate the lunar landing sites; Field trip - Museum of Nat’l History NYC (Visit moon rocks) Teacher Observation
Quiz
Text R. II
8. Describe and explain the moon’s phases. 5.11 Diagram of the moon’s phases - draw and label; Demonstration of the moon’s phases Grade Diagram
Teacher Observation
Text R. II
9. Explain how and why eclipses occur. 5.11 Demonstration of lunar eclipse
Diagram the moon’s orbit and a lunar eclipse; Determine why eclipses occur at all - would other planets experience them? Demonstration of a solar eclipse
Diagram of a solar eclipse; Discussion of how to safely observe a solar eclipse
Grade Diagram
Teacher Observation
Text R. II
10. Explain the cause of various tides. 5.11 Diagram of spring tide & neap tide
Discussion of tidal range at the Jersey shore compared to the Bay of Fundy
Read and write a report on "What if the Moon Didn’t Exist? (Chapter 1 only)
Special Education:
- Outline diagrams, highlight important facts,
cooperative learning
Grade Diagram
Teacher Observation
Grade the Report
Test on Chapter 24
Text
What if the Moon Didn’t Exist? by Neil F. Comins
R. II
W. I
F. Earth’s Motions
(Chapter 25)
1. Describe evidences for Earth’s rotation. 5.11 Discuss the right hand rule
Construct a Foucault Pendulum
Lab Report Lab Manual
2. Describe the basis for Earth’s time zones. 5.11 Class discussion of time zones & intentional date line; Determine the time in various time zones Grade Worksheet Text R. II
3. Identify the causes of the seasons. 5.11 Diagram the Earth’s orbit and seasons
Diagram the sun’s rays at solstices and equinoxes; Discuss life at the south pole in winter; Construct a graph showing solar distance and seasons; Make a chart of astronomical terms and their common meanings
Special Education:
- Peer tutor, cooperative groups, record readings,
outline worksheets.
c.c.-Mathematics-graphing
Lab Report
Grade Chart
Test on Chapter 25
Text R. II
M. IV
UNIT V - EARTH’S HISTORY
A. Describe the 4 major types of fossils. 5.10 Observe specimens; Class discussion of fossil formation; Field trip - Fossil Hunt, Poricy Park, Middlesex NJ; Students will compare the age of fossils
Special Education:
- Cooperative learning, outline notes, record text.
Teacher Observation
Lab Report
Text
Lab Manual
R. II
B. Describe the major events that occurred along the Geologic Time Scale. 5.10 Memorize the Geologic Time Scale using mnemonic devices; Discuss the geologic events of each era and place them on the time scale; Construct a Geologic Time Scale Model Quiz
Lab Report
Text
Lab Manual
R. II
C. Use superposition and fossil correlation to determine relative age.

5.10

 

Worksheets on superposition and fossil correlation; Construct a stratigraphic column by correlating rock outcrops Grade Worksheets
Lab Report
Text
Lab Manual
R. II
D. Explain how radioactive elements are used to determine absolute time. 5.10 Class discussion of radio carbon dating using charts from text; Solve problems to determine the age of fossils
Special Education:
- Cooperative learning, outline notes, record text.
Grade Worksheets
Test on Unit 5
Text R. II
M. III

NOTE SPECIAL EDUCATION MODIFICATIONS SUGGESTIONS. SEE IEP FOR SPECIFIC ACCOMMODATIONS.


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