Standard: Earth and Space Sciences

Students demonstrate an understanding about how Earth systems and processes interact in the geosphere resulting in the habitability of Earth. This includes demonstrating an understanding of the composition of the universe, the solar system and Earth. In addition, it includes understanding the properties and the interconnected nature of Earth's systems, processes that shape Earth and Earth's history. Students also demonstrate an understanding of how the concepts and principles of energy, matter, motion and forces explain Earth systems, the solar system and the universe. Finally, they grasp an understanding of the historical perspectives, scientific approaches and emerging scientific issues associated with Earth and space sciences.

• Benchmark A: [9-10]
  Explain how evidence from stars and other celestial objects provide information about the processes that cause changes in the composition and scale of the physical universe.
  

• Benchmark B: [9-10]
  Explain that many processes occur in patterns within the Earth's systems.
  

• Benchmark C: [9-10]
  Explain the 4.5 billion-year-history of Earth and the 4 billion-year- history of life on Earth based on observable scientific evidence in the geological record.
  

• Benchmark D: [9-10]
  Describe the finite nature of Earth's resources and those human activities that can conserve or deplete Earth's resources.
  

• Benchmark E: [9-10]
  Explain the processes that move and shape the Earth's surface.
  

• Benchmark F: [9-10]
  Summarize the historical developement of scientific theories and ideas, and describe emerging issues in the study of Earth and space sciences.