"GLOBE student observations of the atmosphere, surface water, soil moisture and temperature, and vegetation all are impacted by seasonal changes as Earth orbits the Sun. These seasonal changes illustrate the interconnectedness among these aspects of our environment. Many important seasonal phenomena and regional differences can be studied based on the environmental and climatic parameters measured in the GLOBE program. Seasonal change is a response to increasing or decreasing levels of solar energy input, and GLOBE measurements are windows into these changing energy levels. " - GLOBE, Atmosphere, The Big Picture

There are currently four investigation tests and four protocol tests for Earth Systems for your selection:

Investigation Tests Protocol Tests

Below are the Goals and Concepts defined by the GLOBE Program for Earth Systems:

Student Learning Goals Concepts
  • graphing GLOBE data to show seasonal patterns
  • comparing graphs and analyzing data
  • asking questions and developing hypotheses
  • designing and implementing investigations
  • drawing conclusions and communicating them to others
  • Seasonal changes can be observed.
  • Seasonal changes follow an annual cycle. The magnitude of these changes varies from year to year.
  • Seasonal patterns differ based on geographic location.
  • Earth has many climate zones.
  • Classification helps to organize and understand the natural world.

    Enrichment Concepts

  • Bud-break is the period when leaf buds appear and grow.
  • Senescence is the period when actively growing plant material dies

    Note: Since Earth Systems encompasses all of the investigation areas, the concepts listed above are in addition to the concepts listed for each investigation area.

Questions/Comments regarding the GLOBE Program
GLOBE is supported by NASA, NSF and the US Dept. of State.

Page last updated on October 11, 2002