Table of Contents

RADARSAT-1 Climate Change

A Science Unit for Grades 11 and 12

Helpful Information for Using This Unit

Notes to Teachers

The modules in this unit form a series of logically connected lessons. These modules cover outcomes which focus primarily on high school physics, and environmental science. These modules cover the basic science sufficient for an understanding of the key ideas and concepts. They are suitable for students with a wide range of backgrounds and abilities. It is left to the teachers to decide upon the depth of treatment best suited to their students. Secondary school physics is used as the basis for understanding RADARSAT technology. After working through these modules students will be somewhat familiar with the following topics.

1. These topics may be integrated into your classroom lesson plans by simply printing out these modules (and their related transparency masters) and using them to guide you through the curriculum topics listed above.

   • Gravity (orbital motion) and frames of reference.

   • The electromagnetic spectrum and electromagnetic waves.

   • The relationship between velocity (of light), frequency, and wavelength.

   • The optical physics of reflections and scattering.

   • Optical diffraction (single and multiple slits).

2. In environmental science the main focus is on climate change. After working through these modules students will be somewhat familiar with the following topics.

   • The general dynamics of the Earth's atmosphere.

   • The concept of thermal equilibrium.

   • Radiative properties (qualitative) of the so-called "green-house gases".

   • Environmental features sensitive to climate change.

These topics may be integrated into your classroom lesson plans by simply printing out these modules (and their related transparency masters) and using them to guide you through the curriculum topics listed above.

Curriculum Outcomes

From the Common Framework of Science Learning Outcomes K-12, Pan-Canadian Protocol for Collaboration on School Curriculum, Council of Ministers of Education, Canada (CMEC), 1997.

Earth and Space Science: Earth Processes

Performing and recording

Use library and electronic research tools to collect information on a given topic.

Analysing and interpreting

Compile and display evidence and information, by hand or computer, in a variety of formats, including diagrams, flow charts, tables, graphs, and scatter plots.

Explain how data support or refute the hypothesis or prediction.

Earth and Space Science: Earth Resources

Analysing and interpreting

Provide a statement that addresses the problem or answers the question investigated in light of the link between data and the conclusion.

Communication and teamwork

Develop, present, and defend a position or course of action, based on findings.

Earth and Space Science: Earth Systems

Knowledge

Analyse the interactions between the atmosphere and human activities.

Describe the composition and structure of the atmosphere.

Describe the dominant factors that produce seasonal weather phenomena.

Describe the characteristics of Canada's three oceans.

Describe interactions of components of the hydrosphere, including the cryosphere.

Analyse energy and matter transfer in the water cycle.

Describe major interactions among the hydrosphere, lithosphere, and the atmosphere.

Physics: Waves

Nature of science and technology

Explain the roles of evidence, theories, and paradigms in the development of scientific knowledge.

Explain how scientific knowledge evolves as new evidence comes to light and as laws and theories are tested and subsequently restricted, revised, or replaced.

Relationships between science and technology

Analyse and describe examples where scientific understanding was enhanced or revised as a result of the invention of a technology.

Describe and evaluate the design of technological solutions and the way they function using scientific principles.

Analyse natural and technological systems to interpret and explain their structure and dynamics.

Social and environmental contexts of science and technology

Analyse society's influence on scientific and technological endeavours.

Analyse the knowledge and skills acquired in their study of science to identify areas of further study related to science and technology.

Performing and recording

Implement appropriate sampling procedures.

Use library and electronic research tools to collect information on a given topic.

Analysing and interpreting

Evaluate the relevance, reliability, and adequacy of data and data collection methods.

Knowledge

Apply the wave equation and predict the behaviour of waves.

Explain quantitatively the relationship between displacement, velocity, time, and acceleration for simple harmonic motion.

Describe how sound and electromagnetic radiation, as forms of energy, are produced and transmitted.

Apply the laws of reflection and the laws of refraction to predict wave behaviour.

Explain qualitatively and quantitatively the phenomena of wave interference, diffraction, reflection, and refraction, and the Doppler-Fizeau effect.

Assessment Rubric

Note: The chart that follows identifies four levels of achievement. Levels 1 and 2 describe performance that is approaching the standard for the grade; level 3 describes the standard for the grade; and level 4 describes performance that is above the standard.