The Earth Atmosphere · SHS1 Geography

Lesson notes

Learning Objectives

Indicator: 1.1.3.LI.1 - Discuss the physical structure and composition of the Earth’s atmosphere and their importance

By the end of the lesson, learners can:

Identify and name the five layers of the Earth’s atmosphere in order, from the Earth’s surface upwards (troposphere, stratosphere, mesosphere, thermosphere, and exosphere).
Describe at least two distinguishing physical characteristics of each atmospheric layer, including temperature trends and key features.
State the main gases that compose the Earth’s atmosphere and give the approximate percentage for nitrogen, oxygen, and argon.
Explain the importance of at least three atmospheric gases to life and human activities on Earth (e.g., oxygen for respiration, carbon dioxide for photosynthesis, ozone for protection from UV radiation).
Justify, using reasoning, why the troposphere and stratosphere are the two most significant layers for human life and activity, including for aviation and weather observation.

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Curriculum details

Strand: The Earth and Its Neighbourhoods (Strand 1)
Sub-strand: The Earth Atmosphere (1.3)
Content standard: 1.1.3.CS.1 - 1.1.3.CS.1 Demonstrate knowledge of the structure and composition of the Earth's atmosphere and explain the terms weather and climate 1.1.3.LO.1 Analyse the physical structure and composition of the Earth's atmosphere and explain the term weather and climate
Indicator: 1.1.3.LI.1 - Discuss the physical structure and composition of the Earth's atmosphere and their importance
Suggested placement: Semester 1, Week 16 (Week 16 of the year)
Our suggestion, laid out in curriculum order across three terms of twelve weeks. NaCCA does not fix the week, so follow your school's scheme of learning.
Curriculum reference: NaCCA curriculum document, p. 38

Exemplars (from the NaCCA curriculum)

Digital Learning: Watch videos, pictures or PowerPoint slides on the components of the earth's atmosphere.
Collaborative Learning: Initiate discussion to identify and explain the main components of the atmosphere (troposphere, stratosphere, mesosphere, thermosphere and exosphere), and explain the gases and their importance in the atmosphere ensuring all-inclusiveness and being mindful of reserved learners. Learners should be able to manage their emotional reactions and behaviours using techniques such as mindfulness strategies, breathing, and self-talk.

Assessment (1.1.3.AS.1). The document marks these depth-of-knowledge levels for this indicator: Level 3 Strategic reasoning.

Teaching and Learning Resources:
- Video, pictures and diagrams of instruments for measuring the elements of weather and climate
- Weather station (e.g. GMet and TAHMO) or repository of elements of weather and climate data