Earth & Space Systems
Embedded Files
For years we have focused in on the study of Space or the study of the Earth as separate entities. This pathway’s goal is to bridge the study of the two sciences because there is no way to understand one without the other. For a better understanding, modules have been developed to narrow focus and help understand the connection between the two realms. Earth mission modules include a focus on earthquakes, volcanoes, plate tectonics, weather, climate, and climate predictions. Space mission modules include topics such as rocky planets, gas giants, extra-solar planetary systems, the Milky Way, galaxies in the universe, and the Big Bang theory. Students will attend weekly mission briefings, work online alongside scientists, and collect and analyze recent NASA data from the stream of current explorations. NASA technology support tools allow students to collect and analyze data, and present their findings using authentic methods of practicing scientists.
Earth & Space Systems Pathway
Earth & Space Systems Pathway
Electives and Pathway Sequence
In the fall, we always participate in the International Observe the Moon Night (IOMN) event that is held during the 1st Quarter moon in either September or October of that calendar year. This year we volunteered at the NASA/Goddard Visitor Center.
Here are some of the Astronomy + EAS speaker highlights from last year:
Dr. Philip Plait (The Bad Astronomer)
Dr. Giada Arney
(The DAVINCI mission to Venus)
Holly Gilbert, Director
High Altitude Observatory
Dr. Jose Aponte,
NASA Astrochemist
November 2023 saw 14 NCHS and SRHS seniors on a field trip to Houston, Texas! There we visited Rice University, Johnson Space Center, and Space Center Houston. It was a phenomenal experience!
In January, the Honors Astronomy students always design and build Astronomy board games to teach 4th graders about important NASA missions.
Then we go to Hilltop Elementary school with our board games and play them with their STEM students!!
In April, the EAS and Green Technology pathway students hold a North County High School EARTH DAY where amateur astronomers come out to school and set up their hydrogen-alpha telescopes to look at the Sun safely AND students can make UV-bead bracelets.
In May, we always participate in the Planet Walk event that is held on the first Saturday of May on the B & A Trail in Glen Burnie, MD right behind Harundale Plaza in conjunction with the planet statues that are along the path.
NASA sends scientists out to the trail to sit at the statues and provide literature and activities to teach the public about current planetary missions and our NCHS student volunteers help the scientists run their activities. Then, in the evening a NASA scientist gives a talk at Anne Arundel Community College in Arnold, MD!!
If you are interested in attending any of the NASA-sponsored volunteer events, participating in any speaker presentations, or in coming to the monthly Stargazing parties, please email me at mhymowitz@aacps.org!!
Michelle Hymowitz
STEM Teacher
Earth & Space Pathway Lead
Astronomy Club Sponsor
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North County High School
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