Earth Systems
Grade 6 Science Strand
6.ES.1
6.ES.2
6.ES.3
6.ES.4
Curriculum Outcomes
Students will understand Earth's systems and their interactions
Weather and Climate Systems
- • Explain the water cycle and its role in weather patterns
- • Describe factors that influence local and regional climate
- • Investigate the relationship between air pressure, temperature, and humidity
- • Analyze weather data and make predictions
Atmospheric Interactions
- • Understand the composition and layers of the atmosphere
- • Explain how solar energy drives atmospheric circulation
- • Investigate the greenhouse effect and climate change
- • Describe the formation of severe weather events
Geosphere Processes
- • Explain rock cycle processes and mineral formation
- • Investigate plate tectonics and geological changes
- • Understand erosion, weathering, and deposition
- • Analyze soil formation and composition
Human Impact on Earth Systems
- • Evaluate human activities affecting Earth's systems
- • Investigate pollution and its environmental impacts
- • Understand sustainable resource management
- • Design solutions for environmental challenges
Assessment Strategies
Formative Assessment
- • Weather observation and data collection
- • Rock and mineral identification activities
- • Climate pattern analysis exercises
- • Environmental impact assessments
Performance-Based Assessment
- • Create weather monitoring stations
- • Design erosion prevention models
- • Develop environmental action plans
- • Investigate local geological features
Differentiated Learning Approaches
Visual Learners
- • Weather maps and satellite images
- • Geological cross-sections
- • Climate change infographics
- • Rock cycle diagrams
Kinesthetic Learners
- • Hands-on weather experiments
- • Rock and mineral handling
- • Erosion simulation models
- • Field studies and observations
Analytical Learners
- • Weather data analysis
- • Climate trend investigations
- • Environmental impact calculations
- • Geological timeline studies
Technology Integration
Digital Tools
- • Weather monitoring apps and websites
- • Satellite imagery and mapping tools
- • Climate simulation software
- • Virtual geological field trips
Measurement Technology
- • Digital weather stations
- • pH meters and water testing kits
- • GPS devices for field studies
- • Data loggers for environmental monitoring
Cross-Curricular Connections
Mathematics
- • Weather data graphing and analysis
- • Scale and proportion in geological time
- • Statistical analysis of climate trends
Language Arts
- • Environmental issue research and writing
- • Weather reporting and communication
- • Scientific explanation development
Social Studies
- • Climate impact on human settlements
- • Natural disaster preparedness
- • Resource management and economics
Arts
- • Environmental art and awareness
- • Weather photography and documentation
- • Geological formation modeling
Resources and Materials
Required Equipment
- • Weather monitoring instruments
- • Rock and mineral samples
- • Soil testing materials
- • Water quality testing kits
- • Maps and geological charts
- • Erosion demonstration materials
Caribbean Context Resources
- • Hurricane tracking and preparation materials
- • Local geological formation studies
- • Coral reef ecosystem investigations
- • Volcanic activity monitoring examples
- • Coastal erosion case studies
- • Climate change impact assessments
Teacher Preparation
Content Knowledge Requirements
- • Understanding of weather and climate systems
- • Knowledge of geological processes and rock cycle
- • Familiarity with environmental science concepts
- • Awareness of human impact on Earth systems
- • Safety procedures for field studies
Caribbean Context Integration
- • Regional climate patterns and hurricane seasons
- • Volcanic and seismic activity in the Caribbean
- • Coral reef ecosystems and threats
- • Sea level rise and coastal communities
- • Sustainable tourism and environmental protection