Earth Science

EARTH SCIENCE BEN204

Distance Education Course Outline

Duration100 hours

COURSE AIM

This course/module will develop your knowledge of the physical characteristics and dynamics of the earth, oceans and global atmosphere.

COURSE STRUCTURE

There are nine lessons in this module as follows:

1.Structure and Forces

Describe the major structural elements of Earth and the major internal forces which affect them.

2.Rocks and Minerals

Classify rocks and minerals according to their characteristics and formation

3.Surface Changes

Explain external processes that that cause topographic and soil changes on the earth’s surface

4.The Oceans

Describe the oceans of the earth and their role in global processes.

5.Air and Weather

Describe the earth’s atmosphere and the forces which create weather.

6.The Greenhouse Effect

Describe some well known effects of particular atmospheric conditions like the Greenhouse effect.

7.Global Weather Patterns

Identify global weather patterns and their relationship to different climates

8.Geological Time

Describe the way in which the earth’s surface has changed over time

9.Modern Environmental Issues

Identify environmental issues which are of current significance.

WHAT YOU WILL DO IN THIS COURSE

Some of the tasks and assignments you will be asked to do in this course are:

·Research how a mountain/mountain range in or near your region was formed;

·Explain plate tectonics

·Collect and classify rock samples as either sedimentary rock, igneous rock, or metamorphic rock

·Describe four ways that weathering breaks down rocks to help form soil

·Explain how the speed of a stream affects the shape of the landscape

·Name the three main ‘layers’ of the ocean, describe the characteristics and ocean life in each

·Keep a record of atmospheric and weather changes in your environment

·Explain the highs and lows associated with air pressure, and how they affect weather

·Create a questionnaire to determine understanding of the Greenhouse Effect or the Ozone layer

·Explain why your region has its overall climate.

·Research what life forms (plant and animal) inhabited your region before the formation of humans

·Identify the rules and laws used to date fossils

·Research an environmental problem in your area, and discuss possible solutions.

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