University Corporation for Atmospheric Research
Ucar: Introduction to Climate
A detailed overview of the Earth's climate, with explanations about the difference between weather and climate, dendrochronology, palynology, and how Earth's climate has changed over time. All information is reinforced through pictures,...
Science Education Resource Center at Carleton College
Serc: Earth System Science
Students learn to identify the parts of the Earth system and the processes that connect them. They look for interconnections among components of the Earth system at the local level, using a study site close to their school.
Other
Elmhurst College: Virtual Chembook: Carbon Cycle
A step-by-step discussion of the stages in the carbon cycle. Each step includes a diagram further explaining the processes involved, as well as pictures depicting combustion, respiration, photosynthesis, and decomposition.
University of Illinois
University of Illinois: Illinois State Water Survey: Nitrogen Cycle: Human Impact on the Nitrogen Cycle
An overview of the impact of human activities on the environment and how those actions effect the nitrogen cycle.
California State University
Csu: The Sourcebook for Teaching Science: Earth Systems Interactions
Explains what the four spheres of the Earth are and describes how volcanic eruptions affect the different spheres. Also provides a list of events that are examples of interactions.
University Corporation for Atmospheric Research
Ucar: The Water Cycle
This site provides a comprehensive introduction to the water cycle. Students construct a model to simulate parts of the water cycle. Includes background information, links to standards, lesson plans, and assessment ideas.
eSchool Today
E School Today: Earth System
Learn about the systems that make up Earth, and find out how they interact.
National Earth Science Teachers Association
Windows to the Universe: Biogeochemical Cycles
Biogeochemical cycles happen when individual elements are recycled over and over in different parts of the Earth. Two examples are the Nitrogen Cycle and Carbon Cycle. Read an explanation of biogeochemical cycles and view a diagram of...
University of California
Ucmp: Creating an Earth System: Interactions in the Earth System
A brief description of the four spheres of the Earth, with an activity where students brainstorm interactions among them.
Encyclopedia of Earth
Encyclopedia of Earth: Physical Geography
Get a general grasp on the four spheres, five sub-fields, and two scales of physical geography.