Geologic Time Scale
What’s the difference between an era, an eon and an epoch? Students can answer this and other questions using a “scavenger hunt” where they are asked to survey science websites. The purpose is to begin understanding the “time scale” of geology and how geologic formations came about.
Hard As A Rock
This handout and learning activity help students learn why some water is called “hard” as well as the approximate hardness of the water in their area. Using water from various sources, students will be asked questions about how minerals impact the scientific tests they will do in groups.
Life Of A Rock
This exercise is designed to help teach knowledge of early geologic processes, and why that knowledge is important for students who want to understand how mineral resources are formed. Students will learn the origins of rocks, how they were created and some of their uses.
Mountain Of Stone
A simple word puzzle helps students learn the vocabulary and language of mining and geology. How many can you find? Use this handout in conjunction with others on this page to develop a fun, informative lesson and help students fully understand the unique geology of Idaho.
Rock Cycle Roulette
How can various igeneous rocks with the same mineral look entirely different? Help students answer that question through role-playing, and in the process learn knowledge of early geology so they can better understand how our state’s mineral resources were formed.
