6.4 The student will investigate and understand that all matter is made up of atoms. Key concepts include
a) atoms consist of particles, including electrons, protons, and neutrons;
b) atoms of a particular element are alike but are different from atoms of other elements;
c) elements may be represented by chemical symbols;
d) two or more atoms interact to form new substances, which are held together by electrical forces (bonds);
e) compounds may be represented by chemical formulas;
f) chemical equations can be used to model chemical changes; and
g) a limited number of elements comprise the largest portion of the solid Earth, living matter, the oceans, and the atmosphere.
6.5 The student will investigate and understand the unique properties and characteristics of water and its roles in the natural and human-made environment. Key concepts include
a) water as the universal solvent;
b) the properties of water in all three phases;
c) the action of water in physical and chemical weathering;
d) the ability of large bodies of water to store thermal energy and moderate climate;
e) the importance of water for agriculture, power generation, and public health; and
the importance of protecting and maintaining water resources.
6.6 The student will investigate and understand the properties of air and the structure and dynamics of Earth’s atmosphere. Key concepts include
a) air as a mixture of gaseous elements and compounds;
b) pressure, temperature, and humidity;
c) atmospheric changes with altitude;
d) natural and human-caused changes to the atmosphere and the importance of protecting and maintaining air quality;
e) the relationship of atmospheric measures and weather conditions; and
basic information from weather maps, including fronts, systems, and basic measurements