Thursday, May 14, 2009

Geologic Learning Games

Geology can also pertain to specific regions of the earth's crust.


Geology is the scientific study of the origin, history and structure of the earth. When it comes to learning geology, it's best to start with the three types of rocks and how they are formed. After these building blocks are established and a strong vocabulary is learned, deeper study can take place in the field.


Show Me The Rock!


This game should be played at the end of the geology learning unit.


Split the classroom into two or more teams. Each team should have a tray with the three different types of rock on it. The teacher will read a definition or a characteristic of the rock and the team has to guess which type it is. A representative from each team will pick up the rock that fits the definition best, keep the rock covered in her hands so others can't cheat, and go to the front of the room. Once all teams have chosen, the teacher will say, "Show me the rock!" and the rocks will be uncovered. Each team with a correct answer will receive a point. The team with the most points wins the game.


Identify Rocks Online Game


Play as many times as you like to learn all of the rocks.


This game can be played by an entire classroom or by a single child, but it requires a computer with an Internet connection to do so. The game, found on the Kids Geo site, shows a picture of the rock along with four facts about that rock, like the hardness and color. Use the mouse to choose the correct rock from the list of igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic choices provided. Press the "Who Am I?" button to find out if your choice is correct. There are 10 questions in all.


Rock/Mineral Scavenger Hunt


Watch students carefully to make sure they scavenge safely.


This lab can be fun for students of all ages. After the class has learned identify rocks and minerals from specimens, prepare a scavenger hunt worksheet. Take the students out for a field trip to a site where the items on your worksheet will be found. Break the class up into teams and have them scavenge for the items within a time limit to encourage teamwork. The team with the most completed worksheet wins a prize of your choice.


GPS Treasure Hunt


Make the hunt a race, giving a special prize to the group who completes first.


This game requires multiple GPS units. Split the class up into multiple teams with each getting separate GPS coordinates and directions. At each GPS coordinate, they must identify a building rock and write it on a worksheet provided. Have the students take turns using the GPS unit within the group and limit the hunt to the school grounds. Have a prize at the end of the hunt to give to each child.

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