| Students explore the nature of water resources in several regards. They analyze the relative quantities and interconnectedness of the major elements of the hydrosphere (e.g., oceans, terrestrial surface water and ground water) and evaluate the sustainability of water resources from data on human water consumption. Students measure and analyze water quality parameters (e.g., dissolved oxygen, temperature, turbidity, nitrates or macroinvertibrates) and evaluate water quality and relate findings to land use practices. Using satellite and other geographic data, students examine areas where the availability of fresh water might have serious impact on human health and safety. Finally, students propose solutions to problems related to sustainability or water quality. |
| STANDARD E1: INQUIRY, REFLECTION, AND SOCIAL IMPLICATIONS Students will understand the nature of science and demonstrate an ability to practice scientific reasoning by applying it to the design, execution, and evaluation of scientific investigations. Students will demonstrate their understanding that scientific knowledge is gathered through various forms of direct and indirect observations and the testing of this information by methods including, but not limited to, experimentation. They will be able to distinguish between types of scientific knowledge (e.g., hypotheses, laws, theories) and become aware of areas of active research in contrast to conclusions that are part of established scientific consensus. They will use their scientific knowledge to assess the costs, risks, and benefits of technological systems as they make personal choices and participate in public policy decisions. These insights will help them analyze the role science plays in society, technology, and potential career opportunities.
E1.1 Scientific Inquiry E1.1A Generate new questions that can be investigated in the laboratory or field. E1.1B Evaluate the uncertainties or validity of scientific conclusions using an understanding of sources of measurement error, the challenges of controlling variables, accuracy of data analysis, logic of argument, logic of experimental design, and/or the dependence on underlying assumptions. E1.1C Conduct scientific investigations using appropriate tools and techniques (e.g., selecting an instrument that measures the desired quantity—length, volume, weight, time interval, temperature—with the appropriate level of precision). E1.1D Identify patterns in data and relate them to theoretical models. E1.1E Describe a reason for a given conclusion using evidence from an investigation. E1.1f Predict what would happen if the variables, methods, or timing of an investigation were changed. E1.1g Based on empirical evidence, explain and critique the reasoning used to draw a scientific conclusion or explanation. E1.1h Design and conduct a systematic scientific investigation that tests a hypothesis. Draw conclusions from data presented in charts or tables. E1.1i Distinguish between scientific explanations that are regarded as current scientific consensus and the emerging questions that active researchers investigate. E1.2 Scientific Reflection and Social Implications E1.2B Identify and critique arguments about personal or societal issues based on scientific evidence. E1.2C Develop an understanding of a scientific concept by accessing information from multiple sources. Evaluate the scientific accuracy and significance of the information. E1.2D Evaluate scientific explanations in a peer review process or discussion format. E1.2f Critique solutions to problems, given criteria and scientific constraints. E2.3 Biogeochemical Cycles E2.3b Explain why small amounts of some chemical forms may be beneficial for life but are poisonous in large quantities (e.g., dead zone in the Gulf of Mexico, Lake Nyos in Africa, fluoride in drinking water). E2.3c Explain how the nitrogen cycle is part of the Earth system. E4.1A Compare and contrast surface water systems (lakes, rivers, streams, wetlands) and groundwater in regard to their relative sizes as Earth's freshwater reservoirs and the dynamics of water movement (inputs and outputs, residence times, sustainability). E4.1B Explain the features and processes of groundwater systems and how the sustainability of North American aquifers has changed in recent history (e.g., the past 100 years) qualitatively using the concepts of recharge, residence time, inputs, and outputs. E4.1C Explain how water quality in both groundwater and surface systems is impacted by land use decisions. Copyright © 2001-2015 State of Michigan | |
