Stories in the Mud
Students will obtain, evaluate and communicate information related to the role of photosynthesis and cellular respiration in the cycling of carbon throughout the biosphere, geosphere, atmosphere and hydrosphere.
Students will develop and use models to communicate how sediment cores can demonstrate how a system can change or demonstrate stability and as human impact alters the amount of carbon in the atmosphere.
Evapotranspiration
Students will develop a model to explain how matter (water) and energy (heat) are exchanged on the surface of a leaf that can result in cooling the surrounding environment. (SEP: 2.3; DCI: HS-PS3-4; CCC:4)]
Atmospheric Rivers
Students will develop a model to explain how matter (water) contributes to rain storms and how thermal energy (heat, wind, rainfall) transfers from tropical regions toward the poles. Students will explain why California’s hydroclimate is distinctively dependent on atmospheric rivers and consider social implications related to water management. (SEP: 2.3; DCI: HS-PS3-4, HS-ESS2; CCC:4, 5)