Impacts of Large-Scale Changes within Earth Systems
{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.)

1. Independent Student Investigation Unit Abstract:

This 4-class period project is the culmination of all previous studies and investigations of the various Earth systems. Each student will select a study from the NASA Earth Observatory study pages. These studies are the results of regional or global projects dealing with large-scale changes within the various Earth systems, focusing on the atmosphere; oceans - hydrosphere (including cryosphere); land - lithosphere (including geosphere); and living organic systems - biosphere (including ecosphere). 

2. go to Independent Study Activity Calendar

3. go to Independent Study 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. Independent Study Reference Sites:

NASA Earth Observatory Study site. This site is divided into 4 main project areas - 1) atmosphere, 2) oceans, 3) land, and 4) life on earth (refer to the 4 image links shown above).

Global Warming: Early Warning Signs site. 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.

Global Change Data and Information System site. This site has been developed by the U.S. Global Change Research Program to provide information on projects dealing with changes in global climate, carbon cycle research, and other changing conditions in earth systems.

7. go to Independent Study EALRs and Benchmarks.

8. Return to Earth Systems Projects Page.