Earth & Space Science describes the study of the earth and other planets as comprehensive physical systems, incorporating solid, liquid, gas, and radiation constituents, as well as exhibiting interactions with other systems. It includes planetary evolution, gravitational physics, atmospheric evolution, volcanism and crustal movement studies, global energy systems, organic systems and ecologies, oceanography, fluid dynamics, orbital mechanics, radiation physics, and the study of planetary and satellite systems.
Grade Level Scope of Certificate
A person holding a valid Pennsylvania certificate for Earth & Space Science is qualified to teach all earth & space science courses, in Grades 7 through 12. A person holding this certificate is also qualified to teach this content in the sixth (6th) grade. (See CSPG 104 - Expansion of Secondary 7-12 Certification to Sixth Grade).
Certification Assignment
An educator holding a valid Pennsylvania certificate for Earth & Space Science is qualified to teach courses such as: earth and planetary science, geology, hydrology, oceanography, astronomy, climatology, atmospheric science and meteorology, paleontology, cartography, geomorphology, geochemistry, geophysics and seismology, general science, and environmental science.
Certificate Clarification
Educators holding the following Pennsylvania certificate(s) may continue to teach Earth & Space Science in grades 7-12:
- Comprehensive Science (8430) – discontinued in 1994
- Physical Science (8460) – discontinued in 1997
- Geography (8840) – discontinued in 1996
Special Considerations
An educator certified in this field may:
- Provide professional development related to their collegial studies;
- Serve in the role of mentor or advisor; and
- Assist students in understanding how to read content area materials.
Restrictions
A PA certified earth & space science teacher is not certified to teach biology, chemistry, or physics.
References
Program Specific Guidelines for Certification
22 PA Code: Chapter 4: §4.22(c)(3), §4.23(c)(3)
Chapter 49: §49.11, §49.81, §49.85(a)(4)
PA Public School Code: §1202, §1212, §1604
Other CSPG’s for Reference
This revision supersedes all earlier CSPG’s carrying this number and/or addressing this subject. Previous printing dates on this subject: 3/75, 1/87, 7/87, 12/90, 6/92, 7/04, 6/05.
Summary of Changes
| Date of Revisions | Major Changes to CSPG #40 |
|---|---|
| 5/25/2023 |
|