(Recorded Course) Earth Science with MacBeth Derham

Earth Science--the science of the Earth, our very own planet. Let’s explore the planet we live on!

How to get the most out of Earth Science with MacBeth Derham:

  • First, read the course materials below before the first class meeting.

  • Then have a notebook ready and available for class notes each live session.

  • Read assignments before class meetings

  • Watch that week’s recording if you need to revisit information from our live session.

  • Do the assignments, quizzes, and any extra work assigned for that week.

  • Once the course is completed to the parent's and professor’s satisfaction, there is a Certificate of Completion at the end to be filled in for your records.

Suggested Grade Level: 9th to 12th grade

Suggested Credit: One full semester Earth Science

Number of classes: 13

Duration: 55-60 minutes

Instructor: MacBeth Derham

Instructor Email: macbethderham@gmail.com

Course Description: 

Earth Science--the science of the Earth, our very own planet. We will explore the spheres of the Earth, from the atmosphere to the lithosphere, using tools and data gathered from near and far, high and low, east,west, north, and south. Readings from the textbook and lectures will be supplemented by up-to-date information from ongoing research. Students should keep collections and are welcome to submit photos. 6 hands-on labs are integrated into the course.

Course Outline:

  • Week 1: Introduction to Earth Science--Maps and More

  • Week 2: Rocks and Minerals--The Chemistry of Earth

  • Week 3: Energy Resources--Ultimate Power

  • Week 4: Rocks and the Fossil Record--Thanks Bl. Neils Steno

  • Week 5: Plate Tectonics--Continental D-r-i-f-t

  • Week 6: Earthquakes--Whose Fault?

  • Week 7: Volcanoes--The Floor is Lava!

  • Week 8: Weathering and Soil Formation--Good Earth

  • Week 9: The Flow of Fresh Water--Well?

  • Week 10: Erosion and Deposition--An Inseparable Pair

  • Week 11: Oceans--Salty

  • Week 12: The Atmosphere--Thin Blue Line 

  • Week 13: Weather and Climate--What's the Difference?

Course Materials: Text: Earth Science ISBN-13: 978-0030664786; a short supplemental reading list will be included on the Moodle page.

Homework: Weekly reading from the text and automated quizzes for immediate feedback. There will be 6 quick labs to hand in for grading. Outside reading will be assigned. Expect to spend two to three hours a week outside of class. Easy-to-find materials, as well as safety information, for labs and/or field work will be discussed in class.