Looking at Sand: An Exercise

The homepage contains teacher information about how geologists use rocks to learn about the past. For second grade students, the most important part of the site is the “Virtual Sand Collection.” Observations and comparisons of sands from different parts of the world can be made by using the “zoom in” feature to show characteristics of different sands. Students can hone observation and comparison skills while making a series of drawings of what the sand looks like at different magnifications. Encourage students to look closely at color, grain size, and shape and include these in their drawings. A graphic organizer can be used to show comparisons. Students may have sand collections they can bring to school then use a hand lens to make observations and comparisons. Different soils can also be studied. This activity can be used as an assessment of student's comparison skills.

Weblink address (URL): 
Looking at Sand: An Exercise

Standards & Objectives

Learning objectives: 

Objectives:

This exercise will serve as an introduction to several different kinds of sand, from markedly different depositional environments. The purpose is to develop a connection between certain characteristics of sands, and their environment of formation. These clues can then be applied to the interpretation of depositional environments of ancient sandstone, serving as an example of "the present is the key to the past".

Lesson Variations

Blooms taxonomy level: 
Understanding

Helpful Hints

Materials:

You will need internet access to the pages of the virtual sand collection, and a blank piece of paper to record your answer. Or you might want to download and/or print out a blank answer sheet.

References

Contributors: 
Diane Vaughn
Originator: 
Ayers Institute for Learning & Innovation