Page 148 - The Ontario Curriculum, Grades 11 and 12: Science, 2008 (revised)

Grade 12, University Preparation
f1. analyse technological developments that have increased our knowledge of geological processes and structures, and how this knowledge assists in monitoring and managing these processes and structures;
f2. investigate, through the use of models and analysis of information gathered from various sources, the nature of internal and surficial Earth processes, and the ways in which these processes can be quantified;
f3. demonstrate an understanding of the processes at work within Earth and on its surface, and the role of these processes in shaping Earth’s surface.
F1. Relating Science to Technology, Society, and the Environment
f. geologicAl proceSSeS OVERALL EXPECTATIONS
By the end of this course, students will:
THE ONTARIO CURRICULUM, GRADES 11 AND 12 | science
SPECIFIC EXPECTATIONS
By the end of this course, students will:
f1.1 evaluate the accuracy and reliability of technological methods of monitoring and predicting earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanic eruptions [AI, C]
Sample issue: In the past, seismometers used
a pendulum attached to a stylus to detect anomalies in the movement of Earth’s surface. Modern seismometers use electronic sensors and amplifiers. These seismographic systems are located worldwide, allowing scientists to predict the timing and location of earthquakes with increased accuracy.
Sample questions: What new technologies have been developed to monitor tsunamis since the devastating tsunami in the Indian Ocean in December 2004? How accurately can scientists predict major volcanic eruptions? How accurate are various technologies used to predict earthquakes?
f1.2 analyse developments in technology (e.g., sonar, seismology, magnetometers) or Earth science endeavours (e.g., Lithoprobe, Geosat, Ocean Drilling Program) that have contributed to our understanding of Earth’s interior, crust, and surface [AI, C]
Sample issue: Magnetometers have developed from bulky land-based machines to sensitive, satellite-mounted devices that survey vast areas. Magnetometers provide information on underground rock formations, on the location of resources such as fossil fuels and iron ore, on anomalies in Earth’s crust, and on the movement of land masses.
Sample questions: How can the global position- ing system (GPS) be used to gather information on plate movements? What is the Lithoprobe project, and how has it enhanced our knowledge of Earth’s interior? How are seismographs used to detect water below Earth’s surface?
f1.3 analyse the relationship between human activities and various geological structures and processes (e.g., the relationship between the location of deposits and the extraction/use of resources; the relationship between urban development and/or building codes and the probability of earthquakes or volcanic activity), and propose ways in which the relationships can be effectively or sustainably managed [AI, C]
Sample issue: Volcanic eruptions can be destructive and deadly. However, because volcanic soil is rich and fertile, it is valued as farmland, and farms, towns, and even cities have developed near volcanoes. Constant mon- itoring of volcanic activity and development
of evacuation plans are necessary to reduce the risk for human habitations near a volcano.
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