Terrace Community Middle School

6th Grade Science - Use Your Noggin'

            

             To give you a short summary of the semester, I will give you a brief introduction on how to begin studying science at the middle school level.  Following this, we will dive head on into mapping.  Learning to read a map is becoming a lost art in the world of Tom Tom’s and the GPS.  Knowing HOW to read a map is the introduction to learning about the rest of Earth Science.  As we progress through the semester, we will take a look at the atmosphere (my favorite), fresh water, oceans, and look at outer space with the study of Astronomy.

             In the Mapping Unit, students will begin to investigate the various ways that humans have broken down the Earth into a system of reference to find one’s location.  This will include longitude/latitude, various types of projections, computer mapping and data, and how to read maps without the assistance of a GPS.

             Once the students have mastered the wonderful world of mapping, they will begin to explore the fresh water resources that encompass our world.  We will discuss the forces of moving water and how this helps to shape the land beneath the surface.  Students should begin to recognize and describe the many parts of a river system and other bodies of water.  We will work with SWFWMD to learn about the movement of fresh water through the water cycle using some really fun and interesting explorations.

             The rivers, lakes, and streams have to eventually lead somewhere.  Logically, our next stop will be the vast depths of the ocean.  In the 6th grade, we cover the physical aspects and we do not learn about ocean life.  Students will learn the structure, zones, and movement of the ocean floor and its water.  In combination with Mr. Hough’s class, the students will see how the world has changed from its early life to the present.  We will even predict what the continents will look like 200 million years into the future (although we will not be here to prove it)!

             Following the study of Oceanography, students will get to see just how much of a geek their teacher can be.  Mr. Agee tends to get lost in the world of Meteorology.  As an avid storm chaser and weather extraordinaire, I will lead the students away from the surface of the Earth and adventure into the atmosphere.  It is my hope that we see the students begin to forecast on their own and keep their eyes on the sky!  TCMS has invested in a weather station that will allow students to see exactly what the weather is doing right here on our own campus!

             Continuing further away from the surface, students will adventure beyond the borders of Earth with the study of Astronomy.  We have a great in-class project that the students talk about for years to come that encompasses all aspects of outer space.  We will investigate planets, stars, and the various objects that magically flow around the universe.

             I am looking forward to a fantastic year.  I have very high expectations for the students and I am eager to help them achieve great things at TCMS in 2009-2010!!!!!!!!

Class Information

11734 Jefferson Rd.

Thonotosassa, FL 33592

1-(813)-987-6555

 

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