Standard 4 and Objectives

STANDARD 4: Students will understand that water cycles through and between reservoirs in the hydrosphere and affects the other spheres of the Earth system.


OBJECTIVE 1: Explain the water cycle in terms of its reservoirs, the movement between reservoirs, and the energy to move water. Evaluate the importance of freshwater to the biosphere.

OBJECTIVE 2: Analyze the physical and biological dynamics of the oceans.




STANDARD 4 SUMMARY: Water moves through different holding places in the hydrosphere, with the ocean being the largest reservoir for water. The energy from the sun moves water from one reservoir to another, resulting in the water cycle. Freshwater, though limited in supply, is essential for life. Freshwater may become depleted or polluted.