Scientific Processes
In this day and age, it is important to be able to tell the difference between "good" and "bad" science. I am not talking about bad=evil, but instead, I mean you need to be able to determine if the results are something you can rely on or believe in. Good science involves detailed observations, testable hypotheses, defined variables, accurate data collection and analysis, and peer reviewed conclusions. In this class, we will always evaluate the validity of data and ask as many questions as needed!
In the map above, the red areas are the only places that do not use the metric system. You can draw your own conclusion on that one!
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Trimester Notebook
For each term, students will keep a notebook of class notes, journals, and diagrams. These booklets will be collected on the day of the exam for a grade. If a student lost his/her book or missed notes, use the posted notes here to help you.
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Reading a Topographic Map
Earth System Science
Biogeochemical Cycles
While biogeochemical is a rather large word, it simply refers to elements and chemicals that transfer between the living and nonliving parts of the planet. You are pretty familiar with the water cycle all ready, but we will also be exploring the carbon and nitrogen cycles.
Nitrogen Cycle Even though the atmosphere is 78% Nitrogen, it is unusable to most living things on Earth. Fortunately for us, there are nifty little bacteria hanging out in soil that convert atmospheric nitrogen into a usable form for plants. We then obtain the Nitrogen we need by eating plants, so make sure to eat your vegetables!! Lightning also converts atmospheric Nitrogen to a solid, so even the weather plays a part in this important cycle! |
Carbon Cycle When we think of Carbon, most people automatically think of the atmosphere and climate change. While this is a proper association, most people don't realize that carbon is everywhere, from the rocks in the ground to the cells in your body. When carbon is in living things it is called organic carbon. Inorganic carbon is found in non living things such as sediment and the atmosphere. Carbon cycles and transfers between the living and nonliving parts of the environment. The Earth is generally pretty good at keeping things balanced when it comes to these cycles. Unfortunately, humans are pretty good at disrupting that balance. Burning fossil fuels, using excess fertilizers and detergents, deforestation, and poor land use decisions have altered and affected the nitrogen and carbon cycles. |
Carbon Cycle Webquest Links
Site 1: Windows to the Universe Site 2: Carbon Cycle Game Site 3: All About Carbon |
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