SC15.ESS.5

Science (2015) Grade(s): 09-12 - Earth and Space Science

SC15.ESS.5

Use mathematics to explain the relationship of the seasons to the tilt of Earth’s axis (e.g., zenith angle, solar angle, surface area) and its revolution about the sun, addressing intensity and distribution of sunlight on Earth’s surface.

Unpacked Content

Scientific and Engineering Practices

Using Mathematics and Computational Thinking

Crosscutting Concepts

Scale, Proportion, and Quantity

Knowledge

Students know:
  • Earth's spin axis is fixed in direction over the short term but tilted relative to its orbit around the sun.

Skills

Students are able to:
  • Use mathematical representations to describe cyclic patterns of the seasons.

Understanding

Students understand that:
  • The seasons are a result of Earth's tilt relative to its orbit around the sun and are caused by the differential intensity of sunlight on different areas of Earth across the year.
  • Patterns can be used to identify cause-and-effect relationships.

Vocabulary

  • zenith
  • solar angle
  • surface area
  • horizon
  • north/ south pole
  • axis
  • revolution
  • rotation
  • hemisphere

Aligned Learning Resources

Solar Angles and the Unequal Heating of the Earth
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