Thinking Like a Geoscientist
Dive into the Earth System and explore the geosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere, cryosphere, and biosphere. Discover how these powerful spheres interact through dynamic cycles that shape our planet and keep it in constant motion. This unit is designed to set the tone for the semester by introducing students to science as a process, the scientific method, and the Earth System. Students should work in small groups as well as come together for full-class discussions. This balance of collaboration and reflection not only sparks curiosity but also models how scientists approach questions, share ideas, and build knowledge together. The activities double as a great icebreaker, creating an environment where students feel comfortable asking questions and engaging with the material.
Unit Overview And Resources
Learning Goals
Objective #1
To describe the scientific method and make geoscientific observations, documenting them accurately.
Objective #2
To recognize and interpret common imagery used in the geosciences.
Objective #3
To classify the five major spheres (reservoirs) of the Earth System.
Objective #4
To analyze key cycles that link the Earth System’s spheres.
Objective #5
To describe what clouds are and explain the mechanism of cloud formation.
Objective #6
T0 describe and explain latent heat in the Earth System.
Objective #7
Use Google Earth to explore and investigate the Earth System and the Cryosphere.
Made possible with funding by the U.S. National Science Foundation Award #2221990. The information contained here is those of the author(s) and does not necessarily reflect the views of the U.S. National Science Foundation.