Three-dimensional models help students understand the structure of the earth.
Earth science is the study of everything related to the earth, from the earth's core, to volcanoes, faults, mineralogy, earthquakes, the solar system and neighboring planets. Earth scientists review the effects of the human race upon our environment and study our oceans, atmosphere and biosphere to continue to find ways to maintain our natural resources and sustain life on earth. Fifth-grade earth science projects help students relate to the practical application of earth science through hands-on activities and visual models.
Make a Compass
Ask students to make a real working model compass by stroking a sewing needle with a magnet to magnetize it. Slide the needle through a piece of Styrofoam or cork. Fill a petri dish or small cup with water and float the compass on the top. Once the compasses are completed, students can use them to complete an orienteering course. After getting directions to a series of flags, students must use their compass to follow the directions to each flag. The children must write down the words that are hidden on each flag. When students have found all the flags, they unscramble the words to reveal a science-themed sentence.
Plate Tectonics Model
Students build a plate tectonics model by covering a tennis ball with a paper diagram illustrating each of the major plates. Once students have completed their model, they must answer a series of questions by using their model and conducting an Internet scavenger hunt to find the answers. The winner is the student who correctly answers all of the questions in the fastest time.
Model Fossils
Students make multiple model fossils by imprinting leaves, shells or other objects in plaster of Paris. Once the fossils have dried, number them with a permanent marker and use them to perform a simulated fossil dig. Bury the fossils in dirt or sand and allow children to dig for the fossils using trowels. Mark a grid over the digging area so students can practice creating archaeological diagrams. The children should draw and label their diagrams to identify where each numbered fossil was located.
Model of the Earth's Layers
Students build a model of the earth's layers using a marble and colored clay. Then the children carefully dissect the model with a knife and measure the layers as a geologist would. Class discussion centers on the similarities and differences between the model and the earth itself. Next, children dissect a nectarine and compare its similarity to their model and to the layers of the earth. Cut off three-quarters of the nectarine and explain that this represents the area of the earth that is covered by ocean. Then cut away one-third of the nectarine and explain that this is the portion of the earth that is uninhabitable because of mountain ranges. Finally, cut off another one-third of the nectarine to represent the segment of the earth covered by uninhabitable desert terrain. Explain to the children that the tiny remaining segment is the only remaining area where humans can live.
Tags: their model, each flag, earth science, earth that, explain that, explain that this, help students
