The 12 lessons in this module introduce students to concepts related to the characteristics of the earth’s crust, including continental drift, plate tectonics, mountain formation, volcanoes, and earthquakes. Students investigate the rock cycle, erosion, and soil formation, and explore the extraction of resources from the earth’s crust and the environmental impact of the mining industry. Also included: • Materials lists; • Activity descriptions; • Questioning techniques; • Activity centre and extension ideas; • Assessment suggestions; • Activity sheets and visuals. The module offers a detailed introduction to the Hands-On Science program (guiding principles, implementation guidelines, an overview of the skills that young students use and develop during scientific inquiry), a list of children's books and websites related to the science topics introduced, and a classroom assessment plan with record-keeping templates.
Jennifer Lawson, PhD, is the originator and senior author of the Hands-On series in all subject areas. Jennifer is a former classroom teacher, resource/special education teacher, consultant, and principal. She now teaches in the Faculty of Education at the University of Manitoba in Winnipeg, Manitoba.