This week in my classroom students created models of the layers of sedimentary material on the Earth's surface to investigate fossil fuels; how they are formed and how human use changes the surface of the Earth and the impacts on the environment. I tried to connect life science ideas with earth science concepts. I also focused on energy use and transfer as a main theme.
The lesson went well, however I needed more time at the start of the lesson and at the very end for students to share additional ideas. The use of a model for students to visualize the layers of rock and where fossil fuels are formed worked very well. Students were engaged throughout the lesson, they really enjoyed working with materials to better understand more complex concepts.
Hello,
ReplyDeleteI think that you had a great lesson plan, and I hope that it leads your students to a better understanding of how long nonrenewable resources take to form.
I am anxious to see how solar energy technology advances in the next decade or so; it would be nice to be able to do a comparison of the two types of energy resources as an extension to this activity, perhaps. Amy
Elizabeth,
ReplyDeleteWhat a great idea for a lesson. I liked how you incorporated life science into this earth science lesson. Whenever we can get students thinking about environmental issues, it is sure to be engaging, especially if they know there is something they can do about it. I agree that models keep students engaged much more than lectures and note-taking. Hands-on experiences also seem to be the most memorable for students as well.
Elizabeth,
ReplyDeleteI like that you got your students thinking about how humans affect the environment (Earth). This type of lesson is what could encourage students to go into the STEM field in order to make changes for the better. Great job mixing life and earth science as well!
Elizabeth,
ReplyDeleteI think your lesson provided a great opportunity for students to visualize how fossil fuels were formed. Great job incorporating life science into the study of the Earth. I think it is important for students to see how the various branches of science are all interconnected.