Science: Geosystems
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fcps curriculm

Science
Geosystems

Overview 

Geosystems is designed to provide students with a detailed understanding of the systems that govern the Earth. The Program of Studies centers on the student's ability to:

  • achieve a solid base of knowledge in this field
  • make informed decisions based on this knowledge
  • analyze and communicate information
  • actively conduct scientific experiments
  • make connections within science disciplines and with other disciplines

The methods of teaching emphasize the process of inquiry and discovery through laboratory investigations. The course is organized into four units that stress astronomy, the fluid Earth, the solid Earth, and the environmental impacts on life.

Students use a variety of new technologies that are being used in the field of Earth Science. Remote sensing, GIS (Geographic Information Systems), and an extensive use of Internet to provide access to data are all an integral part of the curriculum.

Other Standards for Science, Geosystems :
standard 9

GEOLOGICAL PROCESSES & HUMAN ACTIVITIES INFLUENCE FRESHWATER RESOURCES

  benchmark 9.a Understand the Processes of Soil Development
    indicator 9.a.1 Diagram the development of soil profiles and discuss mature soils
  benchmark 9.b Understand the Development of Karst Topography
    indicator 9.b.1 Summarize the movement of ground water including karst topography
  benchmark 9.c Identify Groundwater Zones
    indicator 9.c.1 Explain how porosity & permeability affect the ground water movement
    indicator 9.c.2 Identify the groundwater zones
  benchmark 9.d Identify Sources of Fresh Water Including Rivers, Springs and Aquifers
    indicator 9.d.1 Identify sources of fresh water with reference to the hydrologic cycle
    indicator 9.d.2 Interpret a simple hydrologic cycle diagram
  benchmark 9.e Understand the Effects of Human Usage on Water Quality
    indicator 9.e.1 Examine the role of human activity on the Earth System
  benchmark 9.f Identify the Major Watershed Systems in Virginia
    indicator 9.f.1 Identify on a map the major watersheds in Virginia

Other Standards for Science, Geosystems :