Overview (AB Ed): The scientific study of Earth is based on direct observation of landforms and materials that make up Earth’s surface and on the sample evidence we have of Earth’s interior. By studying this evidence, we discover patterns in the nature and distribution of Earth’s materials, and in the kinds of changes that take place. This knowledge can be used in developing models for geologic structures and processes—models that help both scientists and students enlarge their understanding of their observations, and guide further investigation and research.
Focusing Question(AB Ed): What do we know about Earth—about its surface and what lies below? What evidence do we have, and how do we use this evidence in developing an understanding of Earth and its changes?
Key Concepts (AB Ed)
strata
rocks and minerals
rock cycle: formation of igneous rock, metamorphism and sedimentary processes
mountain formation: folding and faulting
crustal movement/plate tectonics
geological time scale
fossil formation
weathering and erosion
sudden and gradual/incremental change
development of models based on observation and evidence