EARTH AND

LIFE
SCIENCE

PREPARED BY: MS. KAREN W.

FLORES
 QUARTER 1

Earth as a Unique
Planet
Four Subsystems of the
Earth
Properties of Rock-
forming Minerals
 WHAT THIS MODULE
IS ALL ABOUT?

What makes planet earth habitable? What sets it apart from other planets in the solar
system? What makes the earth a dynamic planet? What constitutes a mineral? These and the
like are the questions that we would intend to answer in this module. We are blessed to have a
planet that possesses characteristics that support life. Understanding such characteristics will
enable us to have a clearer perspective about our environment which will allow us to come
with appropriate actions and decisions needed to preserve it. This learning material is divided
into three lessons with some enrichment activities. In the first lesson of this module, we will try
to recognize each of the unique characteristics of earth and put proper emphasis on how each
of these characteristics maintains life for millions of years. In the second lesson, we will attempt
to explain that the four subsystems of the earth play important roles in the flow of matter and
energy, recognize their essential functions and explore its interactions. In the last lesson of this
module, we will get a glimpse of what minerals are, and identify it base from its physical and
chemical properties Through this module, may you learn how to appreciate Earth Science, its
wonders, evolution and application. As your knowledge in the subject develops, may you be
more mature in making decisions that directly or indirectly affects the planet and may you serve
as an effort to maintain the life support system of the Earth.

The following lessons are contained in this module:

Lesson 1- The uniqueness of Earth

Lesson 2- The four subsystems of the earth

Lesson 3- Properties of rock-forming minerals

After getting through with this module, you are expected to:

1. recognize the uniqueness of the earth being the only planet in the solar system with properties
necessary to support life;

2. explain that earth consists of four subsystems, across whose boundaries matter and energy flow;
and

3. identify common rock forming minerals using their chemical and physical properties.
 LESSON 1: UNIQUENESS OF EARTH

 Warm-up Activity:

Suppose you meet an alien who asks you to describe Earth, how would
you describe Earth? Suppose the alien further asks you regarding the
origin and history of your home, would you be able to confidently
answer the question?

Every place has an origin and history. As you study this unit, you will
discover many things about Earth- its uniqueness, its place in the Solar
system and in the universe. You will also learn the different theories
about the origin of the universe and Solar System. And this knowledge
will enable you to describe Earth to your newfound friend.

Chapter 1: The Universe and the Solar System

Q: How did the universe come to be? What it is made of?
The creation of the Universe is just one of the many things in science that
cannot be easily explained. Several cultures believe in universal creation as
observed in their own stories, lores, and creation myths.

This unit provides you with understanding of the theories that help
explain the origin of the universe and the Solar System.

BIG IDEA!
The universe and Solar System have origins that are explained by
different theories.

1.1 Origin of the Universe: Creation Myths

Figure 1-1. According to the Bible, the universe was created in six days.
 Q: What is your idea of the beginning of the universe?
On a piece of paper, write or draw your thoughts about the beginning of
the universe. Share these to the class.
Do you know that different cultures have their own creation myths? A creation
myth is a symbolic narrative of the beginning of the world as understood by a
culture.