Scale, Proportion, and Quantity |
| In considering phenomena, it is critical to recognize what is relevant at different size, time, and energy scales, and to recognize proportional relationships between different quantities as scales change. |
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Epoch Proportions: Life & Environments of the Geologic Time Scale
In this modeling exercise, students investigate and model differences in animal/plant growth and environmental characteristics (fluctuations of O2 & CO2 ) based on the different time periods in the Geologic Time Scale to learn about the cross-cutting concept “Scale, Proportion, and Quantity”.
Students will research the different time periods in Earth's history and how life and Earth's environments have changed since the Pre-Cambrian time period. Students can draw models of the differences in the conditions, such as O2 & CO2 content, as well as differences in plant and wildlife that thrived in those environments (types of plants/animals, their sizes, etc.), focusing on one or more specific time periods as well as the scale and proportion or specific characteristics of plants/animals. Students can then make predictions and create models of how the atmosphere and environments may change in the future based on current trends, such as changes of percentage content of atmospheric O2 & CO2 and the types of flora and fauna that would thrive in such environments.
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Suggested Modeling Elements: N/A or Review Library. This modeling exercise suggests a general usage of researched data visualizations in learning about the conditions and changes in environments throughout the Geologic Time Scale. For teachers interested in customizing this exercise further into students' modeling-making, we encourage you to explore the visual library tool and choose the modeling elements/moves that best fit your instructional plan, if applicable Suggested Sensemaking Components: Zoom in/out; Movement/Motion; Flow of Energy, Flow of Matter |
