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Section #4: Science Topics for Module 3 - Earth Science (Geologic Forces, Processes & Engineering) for Elementary EducatorsAn important aspect of this course for K-8 educators is a basic review of STEM. In Module 3 we are going to review basic earth science and geologic forces. It should be noted that this is an introduction and not comprehensive review of science. Articles and other resources are included here to help increase your conception of the earth science explored in this module. 
  


  


Most Common Igneous, Sedimentary and Metamorphic Rocks

There are three main types of rocks: igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic. Here are two examples of each type of rock:
  1. Igneous rocks: These rocks are formed from the cooling and solidification of molten lava or magma.
  • Granite: This is a common type of igneous rock that is formed deep underground from slow-cooling magma. It is composed of minerals such as feldspar, quartz, and mica.
  • Basalt: This is a dark-colored igneous rock that is formed from the rapid cooling of lava on the Earth's surface. It is a common type of rock found in volcanic areas.
  1. Sedimentary rocks: These rocks are formed from the accumulation and compression of sediment, which can include sand, mud, and organic material.
  • Sandstone: This is a sedimentary rock that is formed from the accumulation and cementation of sand grains. It often contains visible layers of sediment and can be found in deserts and coastal areas.
  • Limestone: This is a sedimentary rock that is formed from the accumulation of calcium-rich organic material such as shells and coral. It is commonly found in marine environments.
  1. Metamorphic rocks: These rocks are formed from the transformation of existing rocks under high heat and pressure.
  • Marble: This is a metamorphic rock that is formed from the transformation of limestone under high heat and pressure. It is commonly used in architecture and sculpture.
  • Schist: This is a metamorphic rock that is formed from the transformation of clay or mudstone under high heat and pressure. It often has a layered appearance and can contain minerals such as mica and garnet.
Most Common Geologic Forces to Know in EducationThe most common geologic forces that shape the Earth's surface include:
  1. Plate tectonics: The movement and interaction of tectonic plates is responsible for many of the Earth's geological features, including mountains, valleys, and oceanic trenches. When plates collide or move apart, it can result in earthquakes, volcanic eruptions (see below), and the formation of new land masses.
  2. Erosion: The process of erosion involves the gradual wearing down of the Earth's surface through the action of wind, water, ice, and gravity. This can result in the formation of canyons, valleys, and other landforms.
  3. Weathering: Weathering is the process by which rocks are broken down by physical or chemical means. This can include freeze-thaw cycles, the action of plant roots, and the effects of acids in the soil. Weathering can result in the formation of soil and the breakdown of rock formations.
  4. Deposition: Deposition is the process by which sediment and other materials are deposited on the Earth's surface, often by wind or water. This can result in the formation of deltas, beaches, and other landforms.
  5. Earthquakes and volcanic activity: Earthquakes and volcanic activity are caused by the movement of tectonic plates, and can result in the formation of new land masses and the reshaping of existing landforms.
These geologic forces are constantly at work shaping the Earth's surface, and have been doing so for millions of years. Understanding these forces is important for understanding the Earth's geology and the processes that shape the planet.


Key Terms in Science:
By the end of this science review you should be able to define, discuss and apply the following key terms within your educational practice:  
geology, rocks, fossils, minerals, sedimentary, igneous, metamorphic, weather (including extreme), erosion, landforms, earthquakes, tsunamis, geothermal, volcanic processes/structures 


While we do not have any articles about earth science in this module. The following videos and websites are good resources for elementary educators. Here is a video describing geologists:


What does a Geologist do? (Links to an external site.) 
Crash Course Kids has some good earth science resources as well such as this example:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YkrAIz_Ha6E (Links to an external site.)


We will be using these sites to study and classify rocks in our course:
I will be posting additional NSTA articles in our Earth Science PowerPoints as well. What are your favorite earth science resources? Send them to Dr. M and we will include them in future courses. 


Science Curriculum Search
Explore the science curriculum in the Utah SEEd standards. Search for: Earth, geology, landforms, rocks, minerals, fossils, weather, volcanos &  earthquakes. What did you find at the grades you want to teach? We will be discussing this in more detail in class. As an extension, compare Utah's science standard with the science curriculum in another state you might want to teach in. The link for Utah's SEEd is here: Link (Links to an external site.)


Reflection QuestionsAfter gravity and other forces in nature, consider these reflection questions:
  1. How can you teach earth science at the grade level of students you want to work with. 
  2. How would you connect your lessons on earth science and other geologic forces to your students lives? How do you make your lesson real for your students?

Responsive & Interactive

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Cleaner Graphics

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Wider Scope

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Tablet Ready

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