STANDARD COMPETENCIES:

 

 1. Describe atmospheric circulation and how the process of incoming solar radiation heats the lower atmosphere.

 

 2. Compare the difference between short-wave and long-wave radiation and describe how this difference influences Earth’s surface characteristics.

 

 3. Describe the scientific method of inquiry.

 

 4. Analyze how the Earth maintains its latitudinal heat balance and compare the effects of vertical, horizontal, and temporal temperature distributions.

 

 5. Discuss how the differential heating of the Earth’s land-sea surface creates differences in atmospheric pressure and creates the world’s wind systems.

 

 6. Describe the forces that control the direction and velocity of wind systems, including the Coriolis Effect and the pressure gradient force.

 

 7. Describe the hydrologic cycle and compare the various mechanisms that create precipitation.

 

 8. Evaluate how precipitation and evapotranspiration influence the surface water budget.

 

 9. Apply how the structure of the atmosphere influences Earth’s weather and climate.

 

 10. Describe how secondary atmospheric circulation creates tornadoes, hurricanes, cyclones, typhoons and localized wind systems.

 

 11. Describe how geographic factors such as elevation, topography, coastal or continental location influence weather and climate.

 

 12. Compare and contrast the criteria for and the significance of the Trewartha, Thornwaite, and Koppen systems of climate classification.

 13. Summarize the criteria, parameters, and characteristics for each of the following climate regions: equatorial, mid-latitude, polar, and arid.

 

 14. Evaluate the causes and effects of global warming, acid rain, deforestation, desertification, and long-term climate change.

 

 15. Describe the structure and distribution of major vegetation biomes.

 

 16. Define and explain how the basic laws of ecology (thermodynamics, tolerance, variety and stability) are incorporated in studying biomes and ecosystems.

 

 17. Relate how biotic pyramids, food webs, and food chains affect biomes.

 

 18. Describe how climate influences vegetation.

 

 19. Compare and contrast monegone, xerophytic, acterophytic, and broadleaf evergreen vegetation associations.

 

 20. Demonstrate ability to collect and analyze data collected in the field.

 TOPICAL OUTLINE:

 

 I.      Introduction To Basic Elements of Weather:  Solar Radiation and Temperature, Atmospheric Pressure And Winds

 II.     Global Systems of Climate: Climate Classification Systems, The Composition and Structure of the Atmosphere

 III.    The Biosphere and Ecologic Energetics: Basic Laws of Ecology, Basic Laws of Ecology, Survey of Worlds Major Ecosystems, Vegetation