Knowing which rock is which aids students trying their hand at earth science games.
Earth science, or geoscience, is the field of science that relates to planet Earth and its various parts, including areas such as soil studies, the identification of rocks and minerals and land and water features. In order to assist students in learning about earth science, games have been created---for teaching in the classroom and for students to learn online, at home or in school computer labs.
Interactive Quiz
This game from NASA takes the form of an interactive quiz, with students being tested on their ability to answer questions about land, water and air. The questions in general may be too difficult for smaller children and the game is better suited for students who have already had a chance to revise the knowledge they have gained so far. Many of the questions reinforce lessons learned in the classroom, for example, the water cycle, whereas others test general knowledge.
gaia.hq.nasa.gov/quiz/quiz_start-template.cfm
This Is Your Life
A selection of online games are available here, but the most relevant one for earth science students is "This Is Your Life," which explores geological processes. The game takes the form of a TV game show, with players required to guess which layer of the Earth---sedimentary, metamorphic and so on--- is being described each round in order to progress.
engagingscience.org
Definitions
A variant on the classroom quiz idea, this game can reinforce what students have learned already about earth science. Teachers can divide classes into two teams and present the class with a series of definitions for terms in the field of earth science, for example, a term connected with plate tectonics. Each team takes turns trying to give the correct term to match the definition, with the question being given over to the other team if the first team guesses the wrong term. Tally the scores on a wallboard.
The game can be adapted for multiple age groups but is probably best for students just learning the basics of geology.
Who Am I?
Taking a cue from the classic "20 Questions," one game that can be played with an intermediate-level class is this quiz variant. Before playing, students need to have studied the different types of rock; this game forces students to think quickly through what they know about earth science. Describe a type of rock by giving out clues until a student guesses the identity of the rock. Begin by describing a rock's color, and then proceed by giving clues about its hardness composition or how it reacts to factors in its environment.
Tags: earth science, about earth, about earth science, earth science, earth science games, giving clues, land water
