Testing Erosion and Deposition
Source/Author: Sarah Finnemore, Fourth Grade Teacher
April 07, 2017
Fourth graders got their hands dirty (and wet) as they studied land and water. Students conducted experiments as they replicated precipitation in water tables, forming streams that show the impact of erosion in the process. As they worked, they recorded written observations, took photos and videos using their iPads.
During final experiments, students engineered a system to divert water from a city. Many professionals such as geologists, engineers, and architects build models to use in investigations. Quite impressively, many of the students' systems worked!
Natural forces that alter landforms on the earth are abstract concepts that may be difficult for students to grasp because these processes require thousands of years to take effect. Project-based learning, like this mock erosion activity, incorporates a real-world connection to geologic occurrences making them easier to understand and remember.
Here's a quick video clip in their own words:
During final experiments, students engineered a system to divert water from a city. Many professionals such as geologists, engineers, and architects build models to use in investigations. Quite impressively, many of the students' systems worked!
Natural forces that alter landforms on the earth are abstract concepts that may be difficult for students to grasp because these processes require thousands of years to take effect. Project-based learning, like this mock erosion activity, incorporates a real-world connection to geologic occurrences making them easier to understand and remember.
Here's a quick video clip in their own words:
