Understand the terms Criteria and Constraints. Give an example of each.
Explain the difference between Engineering and Science. How are they related?
What is the Engineering Design Process? What are the steps?
Understand the terms Observation and Inference. Give an example of each.

What is Earth Science?

Task 1: Welcome to 9th Grade Earth Science!

Task 2: Class Disclosure and Safety Contract

Sign your class disclosure and lab safety contract in MyDSDLinks to an external site.
Have your parents/guardians sign their documents in their parent/guardian account on MyDSD Links to an external site.
In order to participate in class lab activities, these must be submitted by Monday, August 25th.

Task 3: Observations, Inferences, and the Scientific Method

Observations vs. Inferences

Practice your observation skills: Look at this picture for 60 seconds before Mr. Tea takes it away. In your science journal, list as many objects as you can remember.

24-Items-1 copy-1.jpg

Follow along as we visit this website - as I reveal more of the picture, I want you to list your observations and inferences in your journal.

Watch Mr. Tea's demonstration and, in your science journal, write down everything noticed - we'll come back to this next class period!

Task 4: Outside!

Let's go outside to practice your observation skills
Find five different natural objects (rocks, tree trunks, leaves, a blade of grass, etc.) and make as many observations about each as possible - be prepared to share your findings with the class.

Task 5: Reviewing Criteria, Constraints, Engineering, and Science

Criteria & Constraints (Science Notebook p. 12-13)
- Criteria and Constraints PowerPoint
Engineering Design Process (p. 14)
- Use this LINK to watch the video
- Engineering Design Process PowerPoint
Science & Engineering Venn Diagram (p. 15)
- You may use the internet to help with your diagram

Keywords: Engineering Design

Criteria - The "purpose" of your project. What is your design supposed to do if it is successful?
Constraints - The "rules" you must follow. Examples: budget, size restrictions, time limits, etc.
Observation - gathering information using your senses.
Inference - creating an explanation based upon your observations.
Science - Studying the physical and natural world through observation, experimentation, and the testing of theories.
Engineering - The branch of science and technology concerned with the design, building, and use of engines, machines, and structures.
Engineering Design Process - A series of steps that engineers use to solve problems and develop solutions.
- Define the problem
- Identify the criteria and constraints
- Brainstorm possible solutions
- Select the best idea
- Prototype (model) your solution
- Test your prototype (model)
- Improve your prototype
- Communicate your solution