Unit Essential Questions How do changes to Earth’s surface affect Earth systems? How do present day Earth processes relate to geologic history? Unit Engineering Practices Developing and Using Models (pp. 56-59) Students use, synthesize, and develop models to predict and show relationships among variables between systems and their components in the natural and designed world(s). • Develop a model based on evidence to illustrate the relationships between systems or between components of a system. (HS-ESS2-3),(HS-ESS2-6) Planning and Carrying Out Investigations (pp.59-61) Students plan and carrying out investigations that provide evidence for and test conceptual, mathematical, physical, and empirical models. • Plan and conduct an investigation individually and collaboratively to produce data to serve as the basis for evidence, and in the design: decide on types, how much, and accuracy of data needed to produce reliable measurements and consider limitations on the precision of the data (e.g., number of trials, cost, risk, time), and refine the design accordingly. (HS-ESS2-5) Analyzing and Interpreting Data (pp. 61-63) Students analyze data using more detailed statistical analysis, the comparison of data sets for consistency, and the use of models to generate and analyze data. • Analyze data using tools, technologies, and/or models (e.g., computational, mathematical) in order to make valid and reliable Unit Enduring Understandings Students will understand that… (pp. 179-182) (pp. 182-183) (pp. 184-186) (pp. 186-189) (189-190)
Engaging in Argument from Evidence (pp. 71-74) Students use appropriate and sufficient evidence and scientific reasoning to defend and critique claims and explanations about the natural and designed world(s). Arguments may also come from current scientific or historical episodes in science. • Evaluate the claims, evidence, and reasoning behind currently accepted explanations or solutions to determine the merits of arguments. (HS-LS2-6) • Evaluate the evidence behind currently accepted explanations to determine the merits of arguments. (HS-LS2-8) Connections to Nature of Science Scientific Knowledge is Open to Revision in of New Evidence • Most scientific knowledge is quite durable, but is, in principle, subject to change based on new evidence and/or reinterpretation of existing evidence. (HS-LS2-2) • Scientific argumentation is a mode of logical discourse used to clarify the strength of relationships between ideas and evidence that may result in revision of an explanation. provided by biodiversity. But human activity is also having adverse impacts on biodiversity through overpopulation, overexploitation, habitat destruction, pollution, introduction of invasive species, and climate change. Thus sustaining biodiversity so that ecosystem functioning and productivity are maintained is essential to supporting and enhancing life on Earth. Sustaining biodiversity also aids humanity by preserving landscapes of recreational or inspirational value.(secondary to HS-LS2-7) (Note: This Disciplinary Core Idea is also addressed by HS-LS4-6.) ETS1.B: Developing Possible Solutions (pp. 206-208) • When evaluating solutions it is important to take into account a range of constraints including cost, safety, reliability and aesthetics and to consider social, cultural and environmental impacts.(secondary to