In Investigating Earth Systems, the theme Patterns of Change helps students learn about a variety of patterns in the natural world as they relate to the study of Earth systems and the relationship between patterns and prediction. Students look at the patterns of natural events and explore the decisions that people make based on those patterns. They also look at patterns associated with the increasing size of the human population, such as garbage generation.
Focus Questions:
Unit 1: How do patterns help us predict changes?
Unit 2: How do scientists develop explanations for changes in Earth and space systems?
Unit 3: How do explanations and patterns help us adjust to changes in Earth systems?
Unit 4: How can we change human patterns that affect Earth systems?
Biological Sciences Curriculum Studies
BSCS (Biological Sciences Curriculum Studies) Science Learning is a nonprofit organization committed to transforming science education so that all students have an opportunity to learn science in their daily lives and careers. For over 60 years, BSCS Science Learning has filled classrooms around the country with research-driven textbooks, pioneered effective teaching approaches, developed new education leaders, and conducted studies that will continue to alter the course of our science education system. Most importantly, they have championed the cause for meaningful, inquiry-based science learning.