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EarthComm approaches Earth System Science through problem-solving, with community-based models that are hands-on and inquiry-driven. |
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 Scenario, Chapter Challenge and Assessment CriteriaScenario Each chapter begins with an event or situation in the Earth system that has happened or could actually take place. Challenge This feature challenges students to solve a problem based in the community. Students will need to use the Earth science knowledge they have gained from working through the chapter. Assessment Criteria Before the class begins, students along with the teacher will explore exactly how the students will be graded. Students will review the criteria and expectations for solving the challenge and make decisions about how their work should be evaluated. |
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 Goals and Think About ItAt the beginning of each activity students are provided with a list of goals that they should be able to achieve by completing their science inquiry. Think about It What do students already know? Before students start each activity they will be asked one or two questions to consider. They will have a chance to discuss their ideas with their group and the class. They are not expected to come up with the "right" answer, but to share their current understanding and reasoning. |
 InvestigateIn EarthComm students learn by doing science. In small groups, or as a class, the students will take part in scientific inquiry by doing hands-on experiments, participating in fieldwork, or searching for answers using the Internet and reference materials. |
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 Reflecting on the Activity and the ChallengeEach activity will help students meet the chapter challenge. This feature gives them a brief summary of the activity. It will help them relate the activity that they have just completed to the "Big Picture." |
 Digging DeeperThis section provides text, illustrations, and photographs that will give students a greater insight into the concepts they explored in the activity. Words that may be new or unfamiliar to them are defined and explained. Key terms are highlighted as "Geo Words." "Check Your Understanding" questions are included to guide them in their reading. |
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 Understanding and Applying What You Have Learned Questions in this feature ask students to use the key principles and concepts introduced in the activity. They may also be presented with new situations in which they will be asked to apply what they have learned. |
 Preparing For the Chapter Challenge This feature suggests ways in which students can organize your work and get ready for the challenge. It prompts them to combine the results of their inquiry as they work through the chapter. Inquiring Further This feature provides many suggestions for deepening the students understanding of concepts and skills developed in the activity. It also gives them an opportunity to relate what they have learned to the Earth system. |
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 Earth System ProfilesThis chapter concludes with a brief look at five different professionals, each with an occupation representing an Earth system connection (atmosphere, biosphere, cryosphere, geosphere, hydrosphere). |
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| Download the complete activity (pdf format) | ||