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The Rock Cycle - University of California Museum of Paleontology
Grades
4 to 8
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What is the rock cycle? What does it look like? Look no further than the University of California Museum of Paleontology's The Rock Cycle site. The website features: What is ...more
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What is the rock cycle? What does it look like? Look no further than the University of California Museum of Paleontology's The Rock Cycle site. The website features: What is the Rock Cycle, Earth System Model of the Rock Cycle, Exploring the Earth System, and Links to Learn More. Additionally, there is a link to classroom teaching resources.
tag(s): rock cycle (26), rocks (44)
In the Classroom
Students can recreate the rock cycle using Figma reviewed here. Students can use Google My Maps reviewed here to visit the places that have photographs on the site, including Hawaii's National Park and Death Valley National Park. Finally, students can create a 3-D version of the rock cycle.You must be registered and logged in to add items to your favorites.
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Laying out the Rock Cycle:Product and Process - Earth Learning Idea
Grades
5 to 12
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This Earthlearningidea activity, "Laying Out the Rock Cycle: Product and Process," engages students in arranging rock-cycle products such as sediment, soil, hand-specimen rocks, and...more
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This Earthlearningidea activity, "Laying Out the Rock Cycle: Product and Process," engages students in arranging rock-cycle products such as sediment, soil, hand-specimen rocks, and images on a large rock-cycle diagram, then connecting them with labeled Earth processes like weathering, erosion, deposition, metamorphism, melting, and uplift. The lesson begins with small group activities and expands into a whole-class, room-sized version to reinforce spatial and conceptual understanding. Students gain a clearer grasp of how Earth processes create specific rock materials and learn to distinguish between rapid and long-term changes in the rock cycle. The activity also addresses common misconceptions, such as the belief that squashing sediments forms rock, and includes printable materials like rock flashcards, process labels, and rock specimens to support hands-on learning.
tag(s): environment (251), rock cycle (26)
In the Classroom
Students can use Kiddle reviewed here to research where the rocks can be found today. Students can use Google Drawing, reviewed here to compare and contrast different types of rocks. Finally, students can create their own weathering process and use Seesaw reviewed here as a journal to track the process of weathering in the rock(s).Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Rock Cycle Worksheets - Science Facts
Grades
4 to 7
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The Science Facts website offers a collection of free, printable rock cycle worksheets. These resources include various activities, such as fill-in-the-blank exercises, diagram labeling,...more
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The Science Facts website offers a collection of free, printable rock cycle worksheets. These resources include various activities, such as fill-in-the-blank exercises, diagram labeling, flowcharts, and comprehension questions, all designed to reinforce students' understanding of the rock cycle. Each worksheet is accompanied by answer keys, facilitating easy assessment and self-correction. These materials are ideal for classroom instruction, homework assignments, or supplementary practice, providing educators with versatile tools to enhance their Earth science curriculum. Follow the links to download and print the PDF worksheets.
tag(s): rock cycle (26), rocks (44)
In the Classroom
Give students picture cards of rocks (igneous, sedimentary, metamorphic) and rock cycle processes (melting, erosion, heat/pressure). Ask them to arrange the cards into the correct sequence of the rock cycle on a desk or bulletin board. Use the ScienceFacts.net labeling worksheet or create your own blank rock cycle diagram. Have students fill in the parts and add arrows to show the transitions. Then pair up to compare and explain their diagrams. Students can create a comic strip on paper or using Free Comic Strip Maker reviewed here illustrating the transformation of a rock as it moves through the rock cycle. Include captions, processes, and labels for scientific accuracy.
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KS2 Oh No, Not Rocks For Dinner Again! - The Geological Society
Grades
3 to 6
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The Geological Society's "Oh no, not rocks for dinner again!" lesson plan is a Key Stage 2 (KS2) educational resource designed to help students explore the presence and importance of...more
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The Geological Society's "Oh no, not rocks for dinner again!" lesson plan is a Key Stage 2 (KS2) educational resource designed to help students explore the presence and importance of rocks and minerals in everyday life, particularly related to meals. The lesson plan covers various topics, including the use of clay in crockery, metals in cutlery, minerals in food and drink, and the role of rocks in producing paper and plastics. It also emphasizes the significance of recycling and the sustainable use of Earth's resources. The resource includes practical activities and discussion prompts to engage students in understanding the geological aspects of common household items.
tag(s): rock cycle (26), rocks (44)
In the Classroom
Have students examine a paper plate filled with images or real items (cutlery, food packaging, dishes). Ask: "Which of these come from rocks?" and spark curiosity with surprising answers, such as salt, baking soda, and aluminum foil. Present everyday objects (ex., toothpaste, pencils, smartphones) and let students guess which minerals or rocks they contain. Use clues to make it interactive and surprising. Create digital drag-and-drop worksheets using Wizer.me, reviewed here. Assign students a scavenger hunt in which they list all the things in their homes or classrooms that involve rocks/minerals. Encourage them to record the item, its material, and its rock origin if known. Add excitement to your scavenger hunt using Goosechase for Edu, reviewed here and have students compete in teams.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Hands-On Rock Cycle - Our Journey Westward
Grades
3 to 7
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The "Hands-On Rock Cycle: Crayons & Cookies" activity from Our Journey Westward offers an engaging and tactile approach to teaching the rock cycle, ideal for upper elementary and middle...more
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The "Hands-On Rock Cycle: Crayons & Cookies" activity from Our Journey Westward offers an engaging and tactile approach to teaching the rock cycle, ideal for upper elementary and middle school students. Using everyday materials like crayons and aluminum foil, students simulate the formation of sedimentary, metamorphic, and igneous rocks by applying pressure and heat to crayon shavings. This creative method allows learners to observe the physical changes that mimic natural geological processes. The activity also includes an edible extension where students create treats representing each rock type, such as layered bars for sedimentary rocks, cookies for metamorphic rocks, and fudge for igneous rocks, making abstract concepts more concrete and memorable.
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tag(s): rock cycle (26), rocks (44)
In the Classroom
Guide students through an edible rock cycle lab where they create models of each rock type using treats. Layered snacks, such as cereal bars, represent sedimentary rocks, while pressed or swirled cookie dough simulates metamorphic rocks, and melted and cooled fudge acts as igneous rock. Students can participate in a rock cycle role-play game, where they assume the role of particles moving through various Earth processes. Stations are set up around the room to represent multiple locations, including volcanoes, oceans, and mountains. Have students use crayons for a rock cycle simulation, where they use crayon shavings to model the formation of rocks. By layering and pressing the shavings, they simulate the formation of sedimentary rocks. Applying heat and pressure mimics the formation of metamorphic rocks, and melting and cooling the crayons demonstrates how igneous rocks form.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Science - PBS LearningMedia
Grades
6 to 12
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PBS Learning Science contains thousands of free resources on natural phenomena and scientific topics, including: Earth and Space, Life Science, Physical Science, Practice and Nature...more
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PBS Learning Science contains thousands of free resources on natural phenomena and scientific topics, including: Earth and Space, Life Science, Physical Science, Practice and Nature of Science, and Instrumentation, Measurements, and Units. The site offers videos, lesson plans, and interactive tools that can be searched by grade level, topic, newest, relevance, and popularity. Each resource provides supporting material for teachers and students. Resources can be shared in Google Classroom or through a link. State standards are included.
tag(s): cells (82), chemicals (36), ecosystems (100), habitats (103), life cycles (22), matter (50), measurement (126), space (242)
In the Classroom
Assign each student a specific cell organelle to research. Students then participate in a "speed dating" activity where they pair up and share information about their assigned organelle, focusing on its structure and function. Encourage students to plan and conduct simple experiments related to life science topics, such as photosynthesis or respiration. Using the scientific method, students can formulate hypotheses, collect data, and draw conclusions. Have students use the digital tools to explore the process of meiosis. Students can engage with interactive simulations that illustrate each phase of meiosis, allowing them to visualize chromosome behavior and understand genetic variation.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Geology - Science Learning Hub
Grades
5 to 12
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The Geology topic on the Science Learning Hub provides a comprehensive suite of science education resources tailored for educators and students interested in Earth's dynamic processes....more
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The Geology topic on the Science Learning Hub provides a comprehensive suite of science education resources tailored for educators and students interested in Earth's dynamic processes. Covering key concepts such as plate tectonics, volcanic activity, seismic waves, the rock cycle, and dating methods, the platform offers a variety of materials including articles, interactive activities, and multimedia content. Notable resources include the "Magma Pop" game, which gamifies volcanic geology, and detailed explorations of seismic waves and tectonic movements. These resources are designed to support inquiry-based learning.
tag(s): plate tectonics (29), rock cycle (26), volcanoes (62)
In the Classroom
Have students play the "Magma Pop" interactive game to visualize how different types of volcanic eruptions form based on the properties of magma. After reading the Rock Cycle resource, students can illustrate a comic strip following a rock through its transformation from one type to another (ex., igneous, sedimentary, or metamorphic). Students can make the comic strip digitally using ToonyTool reviewed here or Free Comic Strip Maker reviewed here. Use a Slinky or rope to demonstrate P-waves and S-waves. Pair with video or image resources from the site to show real-world seismic activity.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Earth's Systems - PBS LearningMedia
Grades
K to 12
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The Earth's Systems section on PBS LearningMedia, curated by WQED, offers over 350 free, standards-aligned resources designed to support K-12 science instruction. Educators can access...more
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The Earth's Systems section on PBS LearningMedia, curated by WQED, offers over 350 free, standards-aligned resources designed to support K-12 science instruction. Educators can access diverse materials--including videos, interactive simulations, lesson plans, and data visualizations--that explore the dynamic interactions among Earth's geosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere, and biosphere. These resources are organized by recency, ensuring that teachers have access to the most up-to-date content and are suitable for various grade levels and learning environments. Integrating multimedia content with inquiry-based activities, this collection fosters a deeper understanding of Earth system science and its relevance to real-world phenomena.
tag(s): atmosphere (22), climate (98), earth (193), plate tectonics (29), rock cycle (26), visualizations (15), volcanoes (62), weather (172)
In the Classroom
Have students explore the interactive "Earth's Four Spheres" to learn about the geosphere, biosphere, atmosphere, and hydrosphere. Watch the video and have students write cause-and-effect chains showing how volcanic eruptions impact each Earth system. They can use Canva Infographic Creator, reviewed here to create a digital version. Students can get cards with different events or images (e.g., hurricane, soil erosion, animal migration) and sort them into categories: geosphere, hydrosphere, biosphere, atmosphere, or a combination.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Geology and Geomorphology - Digital Atlas Project
Grades
5 to 12
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The Digital Atlas Project's Geology and Geomorphology section offers an interactive and easy-to-understand resource for educators and students to explore Earth's physical features and...more
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The Digital Atlas Project's Geology and Geomorphology section offers an interactive and easy-to-understand resource for educators and students to explore Earth's physical features and processes. The site features detailed maps, diagrams, and video explanations that cover topics such as plate tectonics, volcanoes, earthquakes, mountain formation, and landform development. It's ideal for integrating visual geography and Earth science concepts into lessons, helping students make connections between geologic forces and the landscapes they shape. The accessible format supports both in-class discussions and independent student exploration. The videos are hosted on YouTube. If your district blocks YouTube, then they may not be viewable.
tag(s): earthquakes (52), landforms (37), plate tectonics (29), volcanoes (62)
In the Classroom
Assign students to explore the Digital Atlas and search for specific landforms (ex., volcano, fault line, mountain range). Have them record the location, describe how the landform was created, and share one interesting fact. Using the tectonic plate maps, have students identify major plates and label the continents, boundaries (convergent, divergent, and transform), and associated features, such as the Ring of Fire. Follow this activity with a discussion on how plate movement causes earthquakes and volcanoes. Students create an illustrated flipbook using AnyFlip, reviewed here that shows the step-by-step formation of a geologic feature (ex., mountain, canyon, volcano), using descriptions and diagrams from the site.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Educational Resources: Earth and Environment - U.S. National Science Foundation
Grades
K to 12
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The U.S. National Science Foundation: Earth and Environment page offers a variety of educational resources, including lesson plans, printable activities, videos, and images. Lessons...more
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The U.S. National Science Foundation: Earth and Environment page offers a variety of educational resources, including lesson plans, printable activities, videos, and images. Lessons cover topics such as climate and energy, geology, and environmental science through resources like the Learning Zone and Rock'd. Printable activities include Snapshot Safari, Water vs. Land, and Gravity on Earth. Featured videos, including the Science for Kids series, explore concepts like the water cycle and ocean studies, with direct access to the NSF News YouTube channel. The page also features striking images of Earth's diverse features, including tectonic plates, coral reefs, and thunderstorms.
tag(s): climate (98), coral (11), environment (251), gravity (50), plate tectonics (29), water cycle (25), weather (172)
In the Classroom
Students can use Figma reviewed here to compare and contrast water and land. Students can use Google Drawings reviewed here to illustrate the water cycle. Finally, students can use Google My Maps reviewed here to travel the world to visit different lands and find their climate.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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The Environmental Movement and the First Earth Day - PBS LearningMedia
Grades
6 to 12
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The Environmental Movement and the First Earth Day provides educators with a concise video overview of the origins of the environmental movement and the inaugural Earth Day in...more
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The Environmental Movement and the First Earth Day provides educators with a concise video overview of the origins of the environmental movement and the inaugural Earth Day in 1970. The video highlights the increasing public awareness of environmental issues during the 1960s, influenced by events such as the publication of Rachel Carson's "Silent Spring" and significant pollution incidents. It also discusses the pivotal role of activists and policymakers in establishing Earth Day, which mobilized millions and led to the creation of key environmental legislation and organizations.
tag(s): earth day (60), environment (251), pollution (55)
In the Classroom
Have students create a visual timeline of key events leading up to the first Earth Day. Include milestones such as the publication of "Silent Spring", major pollution incidents, and the establishment of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Do this digitally using Timelinely, reviewed here or on poster boards. Students work in small groups to create a short public service announcement (video, podcast, or slideshow) that promotes environmental awareness, inspired by the messaging of the first Earth Day. Digital resources such as Adobe Express Video Maker, reviewed here, Buzzsprout, reviewed here, or Venngage, reviewed here can be used for these projects. Students take on the role of environmental activists, scientists, or lawmakers from the 1970s. Each group proposes a new environmental policy to "Congress," explaining its importance using evidence from the video and research. Classmates vote on which proposal to "pass."Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Earth System - BrainPOP
Grades
3 to 8
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The BrainPOP Earth System unit offers a comprehensive exploration of Earth's dynamic systems, tailored for students across various grade levels. It delves into key topics such as plate...more
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The BrainPOP Earth System unit offers a comprehensive exploration of Earth's dynamic systems, tailored for students across various grade levels. It delves into key topics such as plate tectonics, earthquakes, volcanoes, the rock cycle, geologic time, and the water cycle, illustrating how these processes shape our planet. Through engaging multimedia content, including animated movies and interactive quizzes, students gain insights into the interconnectedness of Earth's geosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere, and biosphere. The unit emphasizes critical thinking and scientific inquiry, encouraging learners to analyze geoscience processes and their impacts on Earth's surface.
tag(s): deserts (20), earthquakes (52), erosion (15), floods (11), fossils (44), geologic time (13), plate tectonics (29), rock cycle (26), volcanoes (62), water cycle (25)
In the Classroom
After watching an Earth System video, have students create a concept map in BrainPOP that shows how two or more Earth systems interact (e.g., how an earthquake affects the biosphere and hydrosphere). Students can build a water cycle in a jar using warm water, plastic wrap, and ice. They observe condensation, precipitation, and evaporation in action. Students can work in pairs to create a "breaking news" video using Adobe Express Video Maker reviewed here about an Earth event such as a hurricane, drought, or volcanic eruption, and how it impacts multiple Earth systems.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Project Based Learning Project ideas - Van Andel Institute for Education
Grades
K to 12
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Explore this collection, which offers over 30 creative ideas to help teachers integrate project-based learning into their classrooms. Featured projects include 50 Years of Interest,...more
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Explore this collection, which offers over 30 creative ideas to help teachers integrate project-based learning into their classrooms. Featured projects include 50 Years of Interest, Cardboard Arcade, Cross-Cultural Connections, Kinder Kindness, Police Pals, and Special Friends, among others. Project cards are available for free download, with some options also available for purchase.
tag(s): Project Based Learning (27)
In the Classroom
Students can use Google Drawings reviewed here to create a cause and effect diagram while researching for the "Save the Turtles" PBL card. Students can use Acast reviewed here to make a public service announcement of the importance of composting while using the PBL card titled "Why Does My Teacher Have Worms?"Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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The Rock Cycle Song - Mr. Parr
Grades
4 to 8
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The "Rock Cycle Song" by Mr. Parr is an educational music video designed to help students understand the processes of the rock cycle. Set to a catchy tune, the song ...more
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The "Rock Cycle Song" by Mr. Parr is an educational music video designed to help students understand the processes of the rock cycle. Set to a catchy tune, the song explains how igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks form and transform through natural processes like melting, cooling, pressure, and erosion. Created for a 6th-grade science class, the video uses simple language and engaging visuals to make complex geological concepts accessible and memorable for learners. It's a useful tool for reinforcing Earth science lessons in an enjoyable and effective way.
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tag(s): rock cycle (26), rocks (44)
In the Classroom
Play the song in class and give students printed lyrics. Have them sing along, then discuss the three main types of rocks and the processes that connect them. This is a fun way to activate prior knowledge and build vocabulary. After watching the video, provide students with rock cycle diagrams that are missing labels. They must fill in the correct rock types and processes (ex., heat/pressure, melting, cooling) based on what they learned from the song. For a digital option, use Whimsical Mind Maps reviewed here. Challenge students to write their own short verse or remix of the song using different lyrics that still explain part of the rock cycle. They can perform it or record a version using a resource like Adobe Express for Education reviewed here.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Tumble Science Podcast for Kids - Tumble Media
Grades
3 to 8
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"Tumble: Science Podcast for Kids" is an engaging, kid-friendly podcast that explores fascinating science topics through storytelling and expert interviews. Designed to spark curiosity,...more
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"Tumble: Science Podcast for Kids" is an engaging, kid-friendly podcast that explores fascinating science topics through storytelling and expert interviews. Designed to spark curiosity, each episode presents scientific concepts in a fun and accessible way, making it a great resource for classroom learning. Teachers can use the podcast to support science lessons, introduce new topics, and encourage inquiry-based discussions. With episodes covering a wide range of subjects - from space exploration to biology - Tumble is ideal for upper elementary and middle school students, whether as a listening activity, discussion starter, or inspiration for hands-on experiments.
tag(s): animals (270), dinosaurs (47), listening (98), natural disasters (21), plants (140), podcasts (155), space (242), stars (79), vision (41)
In the Classroom
Before listening, show students the episode title and have them predict what they think the episode will be about. Afterward, discuss how their predictions compared to what they learned. Choose an episode related to a scientific concept that students can test. For example, if an episode focuses on forces, conduct a simple physics experiment in class and have students record their observations. Students can work in small groups to research a science topic, script an episode, and record their classroom science podcast using Adobe Podcast, reviewed here or Acast, reviewed here inspired by "Tumble". They can include fun facts, expert interviews, and sound effects!Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Game Center - Smithsonian Science Education
Grades
K to 8
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The Smithsonian Science Education Center's Game Center offers free, curriculum-aligned STEM games and simulations suitable for kindergarten through middle school students. Each game...more
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The Smithsonian Science Education Center's Game Center offers free, curriculum-aligned STEM games and simulations suitable for kindergarten through middle school students. Each game is designed with clear learning objectives and vetted by curriculum experts to ensure educational value. Notable games include "Shutterbugs: Wiggle and Stomp" for kindergarteners to explore animal movements, "Tami's Tower: Let's Think About Engineering" for grades K-2 focusing on basic engineering principles, and "Showbiz Safari" for grades 1-3, which teaches about the diversity of plants and animals in different habitats. These interactive resources are accessible online or available for download, providing engaging learning experiences that align with educational standards.
tag(s): engineering (136), habitats (103), nutrition (137), plants (140), simulations (45), STEM (353)
In the Classroom
After playing a game (ex., Tami's Tower or Showbiz Safari), have students create a strategy guide or review for future players. They summarize the game's goal, identify the most effective strategies, and explain how the game relates to real-world STEM concepts. Turn game-based learning into a classroom competition! Students can track their progress and discuss different problem-solving approaches. Create a leaderboard not just for high scores but also for most creative solutions, best teamwork, or most improved player. Challenge students to design their own educational STEM game based on the concepts they have learned. They can sketch a game board, write rules, or create a simple digital prototype. Have students research real-world applications of the game's concepts. For example, after playing Tami's Tower (engineering), students can explore famous bridges or buildings and discuss how engineers solve design challenges. They can present their findings through posters, slide presentations using Google Slides, reviewed here, or models. Students can make a 3D model online using Tinkercad, reviewed here or CoSpaces. reviewed here.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Mechanisms of Plate Movement - PBS LearningMedia
Grades
6 to 12
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PBS LearningMedia's Mechanisms of Plate Movement explores the different types of tectonic plate boundaries. This media gallery includes an interactive gallery and animations of plate...more
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PBS LearningMedia's Mechanisms of Plate Movement explores the different types of tectonic plate boundaries. This media gallery includes an interactive gallery and animations of plate processes from NOVA. The resources include: Mountain Maker, Earth Shaker, Divergent Boundary, Converging Boundary (Oceanic-Continental), Converging Boundary (Continental-Continental), and Transform Boundary. Each of the boundary resources includes a short video. The site also provides supporting materials for teachers (teaching tips and background reading) and students (discussion questions and assignments). Everything in the collection can be shared via Google Classroom, a link to students, and social sharing. The lessons cover the NGSS Standards.
tag(s): earthquakes (52), plate tectonics (29)
In the Classroom
Students can post questions on Padlet reviewed here. Students can create models of the different boundaries. Finally, students can interview someone who studies plate tectonics. Record the interview using Adobe Podcast reviewed here.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Great Lakes Now: Collection 4 - Great Lakes Now
Grades
5 to 8
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Great Lakes Now Collection 4 is a free website based on the prior knowledge introduced in Collections 1-3. New lessons are posted each month to continue building upon knowledge of ...more
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Great Lakes Now Collection 4 is a free website based on the prior knowledge introduced in Collections 1-3. New lessons are posted each month to continue building upon knowledge of the Great Lakes. Lessons posted in Collection 4 include Recovering Renewable Resources, Solar Power in Every Season, Bringing Back Buffalo Reef, Citizen Science in the Great Lakes, Venomous Fish, and more. There are usually four activities for each of the topics presented.
tag(s): climate change (116), reefs (8), solar energy (35), water (103)
In the Classroom
Students can engage in the lessons as presented in Collection 4 and further their learning by engaging in lessons in the other Collections that are offered. Students can create a public service announcement using Adobe Podcast reviewed here sharing everything that they have learned about the Great Lakes. Finally, students can present the information learned by creating a book in Book Creator reviewed here or using Google Slides.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Great Lakes Now: Collection 2 - Great Lakes Now
Grades
5 to 8
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Great Lakes Now Collection 2 is a free, standards-aligned resource that builds on the foundational concepts introduced in Collection 1. This collection explores both natural and human-made...more
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Great Lakes Now Collection 2 is a free, standards-aligned resource that builds on the foundational concepts introduced in Collection 1. This collection explores both natural and human-made threats to the Great Lakes--the largest source of surface freshwater in the world. With a strong emphasis on environmental impact, students investigate topics such as invasive species, algal blooms, pollution, climate change, and ongoing restoration efforts. The eleven lessons are aligned with NGSS, Common Core, Earth Science, and SEP standards, and include engaging videos and hands-on or interactive activities. Each lesson is hosted on PBS LearningMedia, making it easy to share through platforms like Google Classroom.
In the Classroom
Students can engage in the lessons presented in Collection 2 and further their learning by engaging in lessons in the other Collections offered. Students can create a public service announcement using Adobe Podcast reviewed here for others to learn about the importance of the Great Lakes and how we can save them. Students can present the information learned by creating a book in Book Creator reviewed here or a presentation using Genially reviewed here.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Science For A Changing World - USGS
Grades
K to 12
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The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) website is a valuable resource for teachers seeking reliable, science-based information on geography, geology, natural hazards, ecosystems, water resources,...more
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The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) website is a valuable resource for teachers seeking reliable, science-based information on geography, geology, natural hazards, ecosystems, water resources, and climate change. It provides interactive maps, real-time data, lesson plans, videos, and research articles that help students explore earthquakes, volcanoes, and landforms. The site also offers educational resources aligned with STEM learning, making it an excellent tool for engaging students in earth and environmental sciences through real-world data and scientific inquiry.
tag(s): climate change (116), earthquakes (52), ecosystems (100), geology (61), landforms (37), map skills (68), maps (222), natural disasters (21), STEM (353), volcanoes (62)
In the Classroom
Students can explore USGS topographic maps and identify major landforms. Have them use clay or papier-mache to create 3D models of mountains, valleys, or river systems. Use USGS Water Science School to learn about watersheds, groundwater, and precipitation and have students create a mini water cycle model using plastic containers, water, and a heat source. The water cycle can be built on Scratch, reviewed here or Tinkercad, reviewed here to incorporate technology in the classroom. Assign students a natural disaster (earthquake, flood, landslide, volcano) and use USGS hazard data to have students develop an emergency plan for a specific city or region.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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