Teaching Earth System Science Research for High School Students

Using remotely sensed data from a variety of NASA, NOAA, USGS and other sources, our students are able to explore the relationships between the various components of the Earth System. This course is currently being taught on the block schedule for one semester at the high school level. It is an unleveled course geared towards 11th and 12th grade students.

I will share how we have used and have developed several mini-projects to enable the students to explore the various earth spheres during the first term of the course. In the second term students are guided through the research process as they explore a link or links between various spheres while they conduct their independent research. The end product is a poster presentation of their research which is shared publicly with local NASA Scientists.

I will provide you with the various components of our learning/research process in hopes that you will then be able to challenge your students in a similar manner. Sample student works will be on hand.