This engaging course offers a exploration of natural resources, their classification, and the processes that shape our planet. Students will delve into the characteristics of minerals, the formation of rocks, and the dynamic forces of weathering, erosion, and deposition. The course also examines the significance of fossils and their role in understanding Earth's history. Additionally, students will explore the importance of sustainable practices and gain insight into the First Peoples' perspective on sustainability and the interconnectedness of all living beings.
The course begins by introducing the concept of natural resources and categorizing them into renewable and nonrenewable types. Students will gain an understanding of Earth's materials, with a focus on minerals and their five criteria. They will explore the physical properties of minerals, including color, luster, hardness, cleavage, and crystal structure.
Next, students will delve into the three types of rocks: igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic. They will learn about the processes of heat and pressure, melting, and cooling that contribute to the formation of rocks. The course explores the agents of weathering and erosion, highlighting their role in reshaping the Earth's surface.
The significance of fossils as valuable records of past life is also examined. Students will distinguish between body fossils and trace fossils, and explore the fossilization process, including altered and unaltered preservation. They will gain insight into the clues fossils provide about ancient environments and the evolution of life on Earth.
Furthermore, the course addresses the importance of natural resources in Canada's economy, particularly focusing on minerals. Students will explore the diverse mineral resources found in Canada and understand their economic significance. The course also emphasizes sustainability and the need for responsible practices in resource extraction and management.
Finally, students will gain a deeper appreciation of sustainability and interconnectedness through the First Peoples' perspective. They will explore indigenous knowledge systems, traditional practices, and the holistic view of the natural world that emphasizes the interdependence of all living beings.
By the conclusion of this course, students will have developed a comprehensive understanding of Earth's resources, the processes that shape our planet, and the importance of sustainability. They will appreciate the role of minerals, rocks, and fossils in Earth's history, as well as the significance of responsible resource management. The course fosters an awareness of the interconnectedness of ecosystems and encourages students to consider multiple perspectives, including the First Peoples' wisdom, in achieving a sustainable future.
