Differences between Weathering and Erosion

This resource is a hands on activity to differentiate between weathering and erosion.  The materials list is provided and should be inexpensive and easy to find.  The students perform two seperate activities and make predictions before each one.  They record their predictions in their journals and then also can record their observations.  Chart the data during a whole class discussion of the two activities. This activity can be used as an introduction to a unit or as a preassessment.  The materials are easily found and inexpensive.  The step by step guide is easy to follow. The comparison between the two activities is the difference between erosion and weathering.

Weblink address (URL): 
Differences between Weathering and Erosion

Standards & Objectives

Learning objectives: 
  • The students will see examples of weathering and erosion. 
  • The students will be able to tell the difference between weathering and erosion. 
  • The students will do experiments showing the processes of erosion and weathering.
  • The students will be writing predictions and experimenting to see if their predictions were accurate.

Lesson Variations

Blooms taxonomy level: 
Understanding

Helpful Hints

Materials:

  • sugar cubes
  • pie tins
  • water dropper
  • place mat
  • sand
  • straws
  • paper
  • pencils
  • scissors
  • crayons

References

Contributors: 
Jennifer Hassell
Originator: 
Ayers Institute for Learning & Innovation