Learn all about geology, including what a geologist does, the rock cycle, plate tectonics, sediments, crystals, mines, rocks, volcanoes, quakes, and more. In this Middle School Science course, you will get excited about Earth Science as it relates to you and the world.
Total Classes: 13
Duration: 45 minutes per class
Prerequisite: A love of rocks!
Suggested Grade Level: 6th to 8th grade
Suggested Credit: One full semester General Science or Earth Science
Instructor: MacBeth Derham
Instructor Email: macbethderham@gmail.com
Course Description: A weekly look at the earth, its dynamic surface, rocks and minerals, volcanoes, etc. Have you ever had a rock collection? Wondered about God's creation? Been intrigued by how that creation is connected to everything else? Did you know that rocks tell many stories, not only about creation but also about history and science? This brief introduction to the geological wonders of the earth will include an emphasis on the properties of matter. Each week, we'll take a look at the earth, its dynamic surface, rocks and minerals, volcanoes, and MORE! We'll have some in-class demonstrations and explore the history of geology. Mrs. Derham may even share some ideas for fun-yet-educational geology field trips for your family.
Course Outline:
Week 1: Introduction
Week 2: What a geologist does
Week 3: Properties of matter
Week 4: The Rock Cycle
Week 5: Plate Tectonics
Week 6: Folds, Faults, Formations
Week 7: Volcanoes
Week 8: The Sediments
Week 9: A Quake! A Quake!
Week 10: Rivers, Glaciers, and Time
Week 11: The Fossil Record
Week 12: Crystals, Caves, and Mines
Week 13: Places to go, things to do
Course Materials: The Practical Geologist: The Introductory Guide to the Basics of Geology and to Collecting and Identifying Rocks by Dougal Dixon, ISBN: 0671746979 or ISBN-13: 978-0671746971 (www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0671746979/macbethsopinion-20 or bookfinder.com)
For students who want to explore the subject more deeply, Mrs. Derham will supply an optional reading list.
Homework: Students should expect to spend a minimum of 1 hour per week outside of class on homework. There will be weekly automated quizzes for immediate feedback. Students may take photos of rocks or features related to geology and submit them for the class to admire.
- Teacher: MacBeth Derham