Unit 12

Planetary Atmospheres

Planetary Atmospheres (Pacing Days)

Enduring Understanding: The scientific theory of the evolution of Earth states that changes in our planet are driven by the flow of energy and the cycling of matter through dynamic interactions among the atmosphere, hydrosphere, cryosphere, geosphere, and biosphere, and the resources used to sustain human civilization on Earth.
Essential Questions
(Used to guide daily instruction, with pacing indicated)
What is an atmosphere?
What external (astronomical) factors affect the temperatures of the earth? Why are the poles cooler than equatorial regions? How does altitude affect temperature?
What are the layers of the Earth’s atmosphere and what are the associated properties with each layer?
How do the atmosphere, its winds (both local and global), the oceans and its currents affect global climate?
What is the difference between weather and climate? Why does climate vary in different locations? What factors influence climate change?
What is the greenhouse effect and its affect on global warming and cooling? Why does the earth fluctuate between ice ages and interglacial periods?
What creates wind and weather?
Do the Moon, Mercury, Venus and Mars have atmospheres? If so, describe. / SC.912.E.7.7 The student will identify, analyze, and relate the internal (Earth system) and external (astronomical) conditions that contribute to global climate change.
·  The student will recognize that global climate change is related to conditions in the atmosphere and oceans.
·  The student will recognize that global climate change occurs over a long period of time
·  The student will recognize that weather (climate) is different in different locations.
SC. 912.E.5.2 Identify patterns in the organization and distribution of matter in the universe and the forces than determine them.
·  What patterns do the inner planets share? / Honors Extension(s)
How did the Earth’s atmosphere end up so different from the other inner planets? Why does Earth’s climate stay relatively stable? How is human activity changing our planet?