Download The Human Body and Health

GCSE Applied Science: Self-Assessment Checklist
The Surface and Atmosphere of the Earth

understand that observations and creative thought about the
location of earthquakes and volcanoes lead to the theory of
continental drift. This suggested that the outer layers of the Earth
are composed of a number of large pieces called tectonic plates
which are moving very slowly.

understand that rocks can be: formed where tectonic plates move
apart and magma rises to fill the gap producing new igneous
rock; deformed and/or recycled where tectonic plates move
towards each other driving down the denser plate which may melt
to form magma that on cooling forms igneous rock.

know that the main components of the original atmosphere were
carbon dioxide and water vapour together with smaller amounts
of other gases such as nitrogen.

know that the main components of the original atmosphere were
carbon dioxide and water vapour together with smaller amounts
of other gases such as nitrogen.

know that oxygen originally appeared as a 'polluting' gas and it
originated from photosynthesis by green plants.

know that an ozone layer developed.

understand the roles of respiration, combustion and
photosynthesis in the maintenance of the levels of oxygen and
carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.

understand that the ozone layer is filtering out harmful ultraviolet
radiation from the sun.

consider the accumulation of data and the development of ideas
about the destruction of the ozone layer and appreciate the role
of the scientific community in validating new ideas.

know that there is debate in the scientific community on the issue
of global warming and be aware that many scientists attribute the
main cause of global warming to the increase in carbon dioxide in
the atmosphere caused by the combustion of fossil fuels and
deforestation.
GCSE Applied Science: Self-Assessment Checklist

examine and evaluate the reliability of data on global
warming (Higher Tier only)

appreciate some effects and consequences of global warming
and discuss and evaluate proposed solutions to the problem of
global warming.