Earth and Space Science

Unit Standards

8.MS-ESS 1-2- Explain the role of gravity in ocean tides, the orbital motions of planets, their moons, and asteroids in the solar system.
6.MS-ESS 1-1a. - Develop and use a model of the Earth/Sun/ Moon system to explain the causes of Lunar phases and eclipses of the Sun and Moon.
8.MS-ESS 1-1b. - Develop and use a model of the Earth-Sun system to explain the cyclical pattern of seasons, which included the Earth’s tilt and differential intensity of sunlight on different areas of Earth across the year.
6.MS-ESS 1-5(MA) - Use graphical displays to illustrate that the Earth and its solar system are part of the Milky Way Galaxy, which is one of billions of galaxies in the Universe.
NEW
8.MS-ESS 2-5 - Interpret basic weather data to identify patterns of air mass interactions and the relationship of those patterns to weather.

Essential Questions and Assignments.

What is the role that gravity plays in the function the Earth's tides? How does gravity affect the orbits of planets and other solar system bodies?
Develop a visual representation of the Earth,-Moon-Sun system and how it leads to the phases of the moon.
Write a 1+ page paper explaining the process that leads to the Earth's seasons. Create a diagram demonstrating your writing.