Summer SAVY, Session 5 Day 5, Earth Science Rocks (1st-2nd)
It was a busy and exciting last day in the “Earth Science Rocks” class!
We started with a review of our studies of minerals comparing the luster, hardness, streak, and cleavage of the minerals. The students were fascinated by the amount of sediment, or powder, that so easily rubbed off the talc (as it is the softest mineral), and how the muscovite and biotite peeled off in layers.
There was much excitement to observe how the rock tumbler had smoothed off the rough edges of the minerals that were put into it yesterday. Students discussed how the erosion had changed their rocks through not only the gravel and other rocks’ friction but the water erosion in the tumbler as well. We continued with the rumble of the tumbler through the day and the students went home with some semi-polished gems. Getting their gems to a perfect sheen would take many more days.
We continued with our study of soil, starting with a review of how soil is formed, and we then looked at the soil horizons. We linked our observations of the different layers of soil to the concept of change. We also considered what kind of soil is best for plants. This led to us discussing plants’ needs and how different plants have diverse needs.
We experimented with different soils, testing how much water each soil holds. The experiment was done with gravel, sand, topsoil, and humus. Groups recorded their results and shared their findings. We then related these findings to the soil horizons and plants’ needs.
We finished our week off with a bang and cracked geodes. Safety precautions were paramount, and after close instruction on how to use their hammers, our geologists cracked their geodes sporting safety glasses. There was great wonder expressed at the beautiful crystals disclosed within a plain-looking stone.
There was much glee when the students broke their time record on completing the “I Have Who Has” Scientist game!
I am sad to say goodbye to this eager group of Geologists. We hope that we have instilled a life-long fascination with the earth sciences!
Questions to ask your Geologist about today:
- What did you think of the talc that you held? Did you notice more sediment from it than the other minerals? Why do think it had so much powder come off it?
- Which semi-polished mineral did you get from the rock tumbler?
- Which soil absorbed the most water, leaving the smallest amount of water filtered through the funnel?