Ch 8: Energy in the Earth System: Homeschool Curriculum

Who's it for?

This unit of our Middle School Earth Science Homeschool course will benefit any student who is trying to learn about solar energy and weather phenomena. There is no faster or easier way to learn about energy in the Earth system. Among those who would benefit are:

• Students who require an efficient, self-paced course of study to learn about the effects of solar energy on Earth, mechanisms of heat transfer, weather variables, atmospheric circulation, air masses, weather fronts and climate.
• Homeschool parents looking to spend less time preparing lessons and more time teaching.
• Homeschool parents who need an Earth science curriculum that appeals to multiple learning types (visual or auditory).
• Gifted students and students with learning differences.

How it works:

• Students watch a short, fun video lesson that covers a specific unit topic.
• Students and parents can refer to the video transcripts to reinforce learning.
• Short quizzes and an Energy in the Earth System unit exam confirm understanding or identify any topics that require review.

Energy in the Earth System Unit Objectives:

• Describe how solar energy affects the Earth's temperature.
• List phenomena powered by the sun's energy.
• Distinguish between conduction, convection and radiation.
• Explain the differences between weather and climate.
• Outline factors affecting the circulation of air in the atmosphere.
• Describe the relationship between air pressure, density and temperature.
• Explain the general circulation of the Earth's atmosphere.
• Identify the effects of various types of air masses and fronts on the weather.