Geology

     SMART START students were introduced to the field of Geology both this and last year. This S.T.E.A.M (Science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics) related unit primarily focused on the earth's natural structures.

Read below to view what was discovered during 2018 Geology week and 2019 Geology day!
     Future scientists were intrigued by our Geological displays. Exhibited were an assortment of rocks, gemstones, geodes, guides and investigative tools such as, magnifying glasses. Young learners engaged their senses as they explored the materials. 

     The class joined together in our outdoor classroom for an informational storytime. Miss Francesca read from a geology manual while peers passed around various types of earthly matter. All were most fascinated by the volcanic rock and geode. 
Some knowledge acquired during this lesson includes: 

• Geology is the study of earth and its physical structures/substances
• gemstones are pieces of mineral
• earth's crust is the outer layer of the planet
• there are gemstones assigned to each calendar/birth month
• volcanic rock is created from erupted lava

     

      Last year, pupils practiced matching gemstones to their corresponding images in books and charts. This activity worked to reinforce the subject matter. This year, classmates decorated cases to store their own rock collections. All used stick on jewels and name tags to personalize their project. Afterwards, each child selected a few rocks to start off their collection.  

     SMART START geoarchaeologists experienced the great efforts of rock excavation.  Last year, the crew unearthed stones, minerals and more in the school's sand excavation site. This year, motivated minds worked to extract gems that were encased in individual blocks of plaster. Tools used during excavation included: brushes, picks, sponges, popsicle sticks, and magnifying glasses for further examination. All were amazed and confident in their findings. 

    

   

   To complete the excavation process, the group gathered to dig up some candy rocks in ice cream. All thoroughly enjoyed their delicious discoveries and were able to identify what minerals their treats resembled. The favorites were the "ruby" and "emerald" candies. 

     Last year, budding geologists took turns hammering open a geode. All were surprised to witness the sparkling crystals hiding inside the outer layers. This year, preschoolers and prekindergartners partnered together to pan for gold in buckets of water. These hands-on activities provide students the opportunity to experience the subject matter first hand and to comprehend it in a realistic setting.

              

💎SMART START💎