Global Hydrospheric Changes and the Greenhouse Effect
{an Earth Systems Science project developed by Cliff Bishop, Eisenhower High School, Yakima, WA}
(Updated 1-9-00)

The relatively new field of Earth Systems Science is an amalgamation of several sciences, including earth and space, meteorological, environmental, natural, and biological sciences. The interconnectedness and interdependence of the various organic and inorganic systems that comprise Earth have led to the development of this important new area of scientific pursuit.

(The project described below will undergo further revisions as warranted.)

(above) The Global Hydrologic Cycle

Hydrospheric Processes ->

1. Global Hydrospheric Changes and the Greenhouse Effect Unit Abstract:

This is a 5-class period unit within the Comparative Planetology term of IKE Astronomy. It is part of a larger investigation of the Earth-Moon-Sun system. In this unit, we investigate some of the changes that have occurred in the Earth's hydrosphere over the past 200,000 years (based on Antarctic ice studies), focusing on the anthropogenic contributions to the Greenhouse Effect over the past 200 years. Students will develop an understanding of the Hydrologic Cycle on a global scale, learn about the various components that make up the hydrophere, study the importance of the cryosphere (surface ice) in maintaining a temperate global climate, and investigate external factors contributing to the Greenhouse Effect. The depth of investigation will be adjusted or refocused depending on current data, accessibility of internet resources, and time constraints.

2. go to The Greenhouse Effect Activity Calendar

3. go to The Greenhouse Effect Rubric

4. go to Website Investigation Form (a copyable/printable investigative activity form)

5. go to Cyberspace Guidebook Entry Form (a copyable/printable cyberspace website visitation form)

6. Global Hydrospheric Changes and the Greenhouse Effect Reference Sites:

The Hydrologic Cycle: A general introduction to the aspects of the hydrologic cycle and the basic components of the hydrosphere.

Earth Sciences Portal: Hydrospheric Studies: NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center hydrospheric studies, containing links to various projects and the Hydrospheric Processes Laboratory.

The Greenhouse Effect and Global Warming: This site, developed by the Institute on Climate and Planets (ICP), introduces the concepts and components of the greenhouse effect, greenhouse gases, and global warming.

Global Warming: Early Warning Signs: This site (initial posting, 12-15-99) was referred to in a recent Time magazine map article showing indicators of global climatic changes caused by global warming.

The Potential Consequences of Climate Variability and Change: This site was developed as part of a U.S. National Assessment of readiness and guidelines for dealing with regional consequences of global climatic changes.

7. go to Global Hydrospheric Changes EALRs and Benchmarks.

8. Return to Earth Systems Projects Page.