Snicker's Science (T.Trimpe, Havana Junior High, Havana, IL)
Illinois Learning Standard: 12.E.3a
An easy and tasty way to illustrate plate tectonics is using candy bars, such as Snickers or Milky Way.
Have students wash their hands before starting this activity! They should use a fingernail to make a few
breaks in the "crust" or top of the candy bar. To illustrate tension (associated with normal faults) have them
gently pull on the edges of the candy bar. They will notice that the "plates" move apart to reveal the
caramel/nuts or "asthenosphere". To illustrate the force of shearing (associated with lateral fault) have the
students push the plates back together, then slide one half of the candy bar forward and the other
backwards. To illustrate the force of compression (associated with reverse and thrust faults) have the
students push on both ends of the candy bar to squeeze it together. They should notice the plates colliding
and possible see one slide over the top of another. This simple activity is a great discussion starter for any
lesson on plate tectonics!
| Back to top |
Playdoh Mountains (T.Trimpe, Havana Junior High, Havana, IL)
Illinois Learning Standard: 12.E. 3a
Students develop an understanding for contour lines and contour intervals as they build their own
topographic map. This quick activity, which consists of two sections, can be done in one class period. The
first section involves building and mapping a mountain. During the second session, groups try to recreate
another groups mountain using only the topographic map as a guide.
Students should be allowed 5 to 10 minutes to build a mountain using 1 container of Playdoh. They can be
as creative as they like; however, the more complex the design, the tougher the map. As soon as they are
done building, begin the mapping process. To cut each section, use the thread to “wrap” around the area
making a clean cut. After cutting each section with the thread, lay it on paper and trace around the
perimeter. Continue cutting and mapping until the mountain is done. After each group is done, stack the
pieces and hide the mountains in a secret place! Have the groups trade maps. Using the second container of
Playdoh, students should try to recreate the original mountain using only the topographic map. My students
have some difficulty getting started, but loved the challenge. As an assessment, compare the original to the
copy. Have the students evaluate their mountain building and map making skills.
Materials: Playdoh (2 containers per group), thread (50 cm long), paper, and a little imagination
This activity is a wonderful introduction to topographic maps. After completing this activity, my students
had fun trying to read topographic maps of our area. I found maps at the courthouse and had a few donated
by local developers.
Student Worksheet: Playdoh Mountains (pdf)
• Check out the USGS website on topographic maps for more great ideas as well as a list of symbols used
on topographic maps. This website provides teacher tips and information for topographic maps.
• Also visit TerraServer for topographic and aerial maps of your area!
| Back to top |
Ride The Rock Cycle (T.Trimpe, Havana Junior High, Havana, IL)
Illinois Learning Standards: 12.E.3a, 12.E.3b
Take your students on a journey through the rock cycle with this fun lesson. After my students have been
introduced to the rock cycle, I challenge them to create a story about Roger, a metamorphic rock. Students
must describe at least three transitions that occurred during Roger's life, such as changing from
metamorphic to igneous, igneous to sedimentary, and sedimentary to igneous. Students have the option of
writing a diary, creating a cartoon, or making a children's book. My students have a great time using their
creativity and I enjoy a little of their humorous insights into Roger's life.
Also available .... Ride the Rock Cycle activity (created by Stacy Baker, Pleasant Hill School, Peoria, IL)
For this activity students roll a die and travel through different stations to learn about the rock cycle. After
their journey, they use the information from the "trip" to create a comic strip.
Student Worksheets: Rock Cycle Worksheet (pdf) and Rock Cycle Dice (pdf)