SEEd - Grade 8
Lesson Plans

Strand 8.4: INTERACTIONS WITH NATURAL SYSTEMS AND RESOURCES

Interactions of matter and energy through geologic processes have led to the uneven distribution of natural resources. Many of these resources are nonrenewable, and per-capita use can cause positive or negative consequences. Global temperatures change due to various factors, and can cause a change in regional climates. As energy flows through the physical world, natural disasters can occur that affect human life. Humans can study patterns in natural systems to anticipate and forecast some future disasters and work to mitigate the outcomes.

Standard 8.4.2

Engage in argument supported by evidence about the effect of per-capita consumption of natural resources on Earth's systems. Emphasize that these resources are limited and may be non-renewable. Examples of evidence include rates of consumption of food and natural resources such as freshwater, minerals, and energy sources. (ESS3.A, ESS3.C)

• 8.4 Water Resources Lesson Plan & Resources
  A Google Drive folder with 8.4.2, 8.4.3 phenomenon-based, 5E lessons that align to the SEEd standards. Lesson folders include lesson plans, a slideshow, and supporting materials for teaching the lesson to your students. Students use articles and datasets to evaluate water supply and demand in Utah. After building an understanding of water as a limited resource in a state with a growing population, students design a tool or process for conserving water.
• Air, Natural Resources, and You 8.4.2
  Students will analyze data from an air pollution study as well as facts about air pollution and use the data as evidence to infer the effect of using natural resources (fossil fuels and mineral ore) on the atmosphere and on public health.
• Utah Copper
  Students will write an argument related to the per capita consumption of copper and its effect on the Earth?s systems.
• Water in Our World: Exploring Storage and Movement in Different Environments
  This resource is a USGS lesson plan designed to help teachers utilize the "Where is the Water" posters and images from the Modern Water Cycle collection by BYU. The resources emphasize the two-way connection between humans and water and examines the water cycle in various environments: desert, forest, urban, suburban, coastal, and agricultural.

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http://www.uen.org - in partnership with Utah State Board of Education (USBE) and Utah System of Higher Education (USHE).  Send questions or comments to USBE Specialist - Milo  Maughan and see the Science - Secondary website. For general questions about Utah's Core Standards contact the Director - Jennifer  Throndsen.

These materials have been produced by and for the teachers of the State of Utah. Copies of these materials may be freely reproduced for teacher and classroom use. When distributing these materials, credit should be given to Utah State Board of Education. These materials may not be published, in whole or part, or in any other format, without the written permission of the Utah State Board of Education, 250 East 500 South, PO Box 144200, Salt Lake City, Utah 84114-4200.