Goldberry's Science Blog: September 2018

Gaia Theory and All Life is Connected

The concepts of an interconnected earth are intriguing and measurable. As a botanist and microbiologist I have studied symbiotic relations that range from parasitic to symbiotic. Many indigenous people have understood these concepts longer than modern scientists. The Lakota Sioux state: “Mitakuye Oyasin,”which means, “To all of my relations.” It is a prayer of oneness and harmony with all forms of life: people, animals, birds, plants, insects, and even rocks. It is a reminder that we all share a common kinship within the hoop of life. Our bodies are composites of bacteria, and within our cells are remnants of ancient bacterial cells that are now mitochondria. Dr. Lynn Marguelis a famous botanist, and suppoter of James Lovelock Theory of Gaia states: "The only individuals on the planet are bacteria."

http://www.unreasonable.com/people/margulis/root.htm

http://www.lakotawritings.com/Sacred_Symbols.htm

Friday, September 28, 2018

The Atmospheres of the Solar System

Learning Objective:

Students will compare and contrast atmosphere compositions between all planets in the solar system. Investigate the evolution of earth's atmosphere, its unique properties, and current environmental degradation. Compare and contrast the scale of objects within our solar system and hierarchy of matter.

Competency Projects:

Graphic organizer of Atmospheres of the Solar System.
Individual Presentation (planetary solar system: composition, unique features, contrast to Earth, reflection on life present).
Recreation of Atmospheric Earth Column
Pressure Can Lab
Hierarchy of Matter Lab
Quiz: Solar System and Atmosphere

https://www.compoundchem.com/2014/07/25/planetatmospheres/

Utah Education Network: Earth Science Core Objectives

Relate the composition of objects in the solar system to their distance from the Sun.

Compare the size of the solar system to the Milky Way galaxy.

Compare the size and scale of objects within the solar system.

Evaluate the conditions that currently support life on Earth (biosphere) and compare them to the conditions that exist on other planets and moons in the solar system (e.g., atmosphere, hydrosphere, geosphere, amounts of incoming solar energy, habitable zone).