Earth System Science Module: Hydrosphere Module Goal: To enhance interdisciplinary Earth system science literacy and knowledge of the hydrosphere for pre-service teachers. (NASA, ESE Education Strategy, 1996) In this earth science module, the Hydrosphere, students will: Identify the major Earth systems Demonstrate an understanding of the significance of the hydrosphere as one of earth's systems Describe at least ten (10) major uses of water on planet Earth Research major sources of earth's water Demonstrate research skills in locating information that describe general aspects of the hydrosphere Research recent discoveries by NASA related to water on the planet Mars Compare and contrast the hydrosphere of Earth with that of Mars Explain concerns related to conservation of water and water quality Become familiar with agencies that are actively and effectively involved in water science, i.e., NASA, GLOBE, USGS (United States Geological Survey) List instruments utilized by NASA and GLOBE to measure elements that define water quality (i.e., ph, salinity, alkalinity, dissolved oxygen, temperature, nitrates, electrical conductivity) Evaluate a hydrology sample taken from a local creek, lake, stream, or ocean Research two effective conservation methods currently in use that reduce the effects of human pollution of water sources Research and discuss conservation methods currently employed by NASA and the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) to preserve Earth's water supply Employ the scientific method in solving problems related to water pollution in local communities Identify major areas associated with the hydrosphere (i.e., ground water, clouds) Demonstrate understanding of the significance of the water cycle by creating a visual model Identify and describe major cloud formations (i.e., cumulus, cirrus, etc.) Using your knowledge of cumulus clouds develop a weather forecast (optional) Develop an annotated bibliography of websites as references for the study of the Hydrosphere Develop an annotated bibliography of books and periodicals that reference the hydrosphere and its significance to earth Develop a unit plan on the Hydrosphere Develop eight (8) lesson plans, one for each grade level (K-7), emphasizing major aspects of the hydrosphere Develop hands-on activities to demonstrate each lesson plan Teach one (1) lesson from the primary grade level (K-3) and one (1) lesson from the intermediate grade level (4-7) [Return to Home Page]