Download the course overview

We begin the course with some introductory
"sciencey" stuff; such as:
 Introduction to space and earth science
 Method of Scientists
 Review how we carry out scientific
investigations.
 Scientific Notation
 Communication in Science (laws vs. theories)
 latitude and longitude and other basic Earth
facts.
Unit 1: Science of the Universe
We will look at a number phenomena of the
universe including the big bang theory, galaxies,
red shift, star formation, and black holes. In later
units we will examine the techniques used to
identify and measure such phenomena. In
addition, we will analyze major milestones in
astronomical theory and developments in
astronomical technology.
Unit 2: Planetary Science
We will investigate the features and interactions
between bodies in the solar system and their impact on
the existence of life. We examine the following topics:
- The formation and composition of the solar system.
- Properties of the Earth that protect life from hazards.
- Compare Earth with other objects in the solar system.
- Identify geological processes common to Earth and
other bodies in our solar system.
Unit 3: Recording Earth’s Geological History
This unit will examine the relationship between climate,
geology, and life on Earth through referencing geological
records. You will further investigate Earth's geological
history in terms of the major changes that have occurred,
the processes that caused them, and how such changes are
recorded. Some additional topics that will be covered
include:
- Investigating the geological history of an area of Ontario.
Compare geological time scales to human time scales.
Causes of changes to Earth's atmospheric conditions
over time.
Evolution of life.
Dating techniques and radioactive decay.
Unit 4: Earth Materials
This unit will take a look at minerals and their properties in the
formation of rocks. You will also examine the properties of such
minerals, the technologies used to extract them, and the impact of the
exploitation of such materials. Some other topics to be covered are:
- The investigation of sedimentary, metamorphic, and igneous rocks.
- The role of Earth materials in the disposal of waste and toxic
materials.
- Investigation and inquiry of minerals and the factors that determine
the size of their crystals.
You will also examine the impact on economies of the extraction of
various Earth materials. They will also analyze the technologies and
techniques used for this extraction, and the possible environmental
repercussions.
Unit 5: Geological Processes
This unit will examine internal and external geological processes
on Earth. As well, it will analyze those technologies that allow
for our examination of such processes. Some other areas covered
include:
- Investigation of weathering, erosion, seismic activity, and
various land slides and falls.
- An examination of lithospheric plates and the major areas of
tectonic activity.
Students will also assess the reliability of technological methods
of monitoring earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanic eruptions.
They will also analyze the relationship between human activities
and geological structures and processes.