Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS):
Earth Systems
MS-ESS2-1: Develop a model to describe the cycling of Earth’s materials and the flow of energy that drives this process.
MS-ESS2-2: Construct an explanation based on evidence for how geoscience processes have changed Earth’s surface at varying time and spatial scales.
MS-ESS2-3: Analyze and interpret data on the distribution of fossils and rocks, continental shapes, and seafloor structures to provide evidence of past plate motions.
MS-ESS2-5: Collect data to provide evidence for how the motions and complex interactions of air masses result in changes in weather conditions.
HS-ESS2-1: Develop a model to illustrate how Earth's internal and surface processes operate at different spatial and temporal scales to form continental and ocean-floor features.
HS-ESS2-2: Analyze geoscience data to make the claim that one change to Earth's surface can create feedbacks that cause changes to other Earth systems.
HS-ESS2-3: Develop a model based on evidence of Earth’s interior to describe the cycling of matter by thermal convection.
HS-ESS2-5: Plan and conduct an investigation of the properties of water and its effects on Earth materials and surface processes.
Earth and Human Activity
MS-ESS3-1: Construct a scientific explanation based on evidence for how the uneven distributions of Earth’s mineral, energy, and groundwater resources are the result of past and current geoscience processes.
MS-ESS3-2: Analyze and interpret data on natural hazards to forecast future catastrophic events and inform the development of technologies to mitigate their effects.
MS-ESS3-4: Construct an argument supported by evidence for how increases in human population and per-capita consumption of natural resources impact Earth's systems.
HS-ESS3-1: Construct an explanation based on evidence for how the availability of natural resources, occurrence of natural hazards, and changes in climate have influenced human activity.
HS-ESS3-2: Evaluate competing design solutions for developing, managing, and utilizing energy and mineral resources based on cost-benefit ratios.
HS-ESS3-4: Evaluate or refine a technological solution that reduces impacts of human activities on natural systems.
Engineering, Technology, and Applications of Science
MS-ETS1-2: Evaluate competing design solutions using a systematic process to determine how well they meet the criteria and constraints of a problem.
Crosscutting Concepts
● Patterns: Observing the distribution of volcanic eruptions and earthquakes.
● Cause and Effect: Exploring the link between tectonic movements and geological formations like lava tubes and fissures.
● Energy and Matter: Understanding geothermal energy processes.
● Stability and Change: The constant shifts in Iceland's geological features due to tectonic and volcanic activity.
Science and Engineering Practices
● Developing and Using Models: Students plot and interpret maps of Iceland’s geological activity.
● Analyzing and Interpreting Data: Comparing seismic and volcanic data to identify patterns.
● Engaging in Argument from Evidence: Discussing the benefits and risks of living near active volcanic zones.
