Activities enhance the study of geology for students.
Students are often introduced to geology in their elementary or middle school careers. Since children learn well through hands-on activities, bring science projects into the classroom for them to work on as individuals or in groups. You might demonstrate some activities to them, or have them prepare their work for a school science fair.
Crystal Observation
Bring in sugar and salt crystals for the students to observe. Hand out black pieces of paper, so that they are able to see the crystals better. Ask them to describe the sizes, shapes and colors of the different crystals. They should keep a chart that recognizes the differences and similarities between the two different types of crystals. Explain to them that there are seven different types of crystals. Draw them on the board and ask students if the sugar and salt crystals resemble the others.
Rock Collection
This project can be ongoing throughout the school year. Teach students about the three different types of rocks, and the distinguishing characteristics of igneous, sedimentary and metamorphic rocks. Go on a walk with your students, whether in the schoolyard, a local park or the beach, and have them gather rocks. Back in the classroom, each student can present a rock and explain its type. You can start a classroom collection and allow students to bring rocks in any day.
Models of the Earth's Interior
Provide diagrams and models of the interior of the Earth, including the crust, mantle, inner core and outer core. Ask students to reproduce what they see, and to label each part of the interior accordingly. Require them to use a particular medium, such as paper plates of different sizes, or allow them to be creative and select from materials such as poster board, paper plates and clay. Have them complete the project in class or for homework.
Worksheets
Not every school has the space or room to conduct experiments or create collections. Therefore, you could distribute handouts to the students. For example, distribute a handout where students have to write out and illustrate the different stages of a tsunami. Another example is to hand out a chart with minerals such as lead, zinc, copper and so forth listed on them. Ask students to fill out the historical and current uses of the minerals.
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