Course Overview

Earth Science B is the second part of a comprehensive high school Earth Science sequence, designed to provide students with an integrative understanding of Earth's major spheres—the lithosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere, and biosphere—and their interactions. The course expands on foundational concepts introduced in Earth Science A, with a deeper focus on geological processes, atmospheric systems, water resources, ecosystems, and space sciences. Students also explore Earth's geologic history, meteorology, and astronomical phenomena such as the sun, stars, galaxies, and the broader universe.

Key Learning Focus

• Lithosphere: Analyzing geological formations, Earth's geologic history, and processes such as erosion, plate tectonics, and volcanism.
• Hydrosphere: Investigating water systems, resource distribution, and the impact of water cycles on ecosystems and climate.
• Atmosphere: Studying meteorology, weather dynamics, and global climate systems.
• Biosphere: Exploring ecosystems, biodiversity, and the effects of human activity on Earth's living systems.
• Space Science: Learning about orbital motion, stars, galaxies, and the structure of the universe.
• Interconnected Systems: Evaluating the relationships among Earth's spheres and their collective impact on the environment and society.

Instructional Approach

Instruction in Earth Science B emphasizes active, inquiry-driven learning. Students engage in laboratory and field-based investigations, atmospheric experiments, and data analysis projects. Hands-on exploration is paired with virtual simulations, enabling students to model Earth's processes and astronomical phenomena. Project-based activities include studying resource management, evaluating human impacts on ecosystems, and investigating climate patterns. This approach cultivates critical thinking, scientific reasoning, and problem-solving skills while connecting scientific knowledge to real-world contexts.

Academic Alignment and Progression

Earth Science B is a full-year intermediate course aligned with the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) and state and national benchmarks. It follows Earth Science A as part of a sequential STEM pathway, providing students with a complete and rigorous introduction to the Earth sciences. Together, the courses prepare students for advanced high school electives, AP-level coursework, and college-level study in geology, meteorology, astronomy, oceanography, and environmental science. This course also introduces career pathways in geoscience, environmental consulting, natural resource management, and space science.

Outcomes

By the end of Earth Science B, students will:

• Demonstrate understanding of Earth's lithosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere, and biosphere as interconnected systems.
• Analyze meteorological processes, climate patterns, and geologic history.
• Investigate water resources and evaluate their role in sustaining ecosystems and human societies.
• Explain space science concepts, including orbital motion, stars, galaxies, and the universe.
• Apply scientific inquiry through hands-on and virtual investigations of Earth's processes.
• Be prepared for advanced Earth Science electives, AP coursework, or college-level science programs.