Activity

Description

Science

Lang. Arts

Math

P.E.

History

Science

Geology each one teach one

With guidance students teach each other geology concepts including: layers of the earth, types and causes of plate movement, granite formation, glacier formation/movement and fault-block mountain formation.

Written & oral: 1.0, 1.1

Listening

& speaking: 1.3

5, 6

Break it down

Students make observations relating to the process of erosion and brainstorm causes of granite decomposition, deposition and transportation.

Rock fall drill

Students practice taking shelter from rock fall and discuss its various causes.

5, 6

Journal time

Students write a descriptive letter, addressed to themselves, telling the story of a rock in the area. This imaginative activity demonstrates student comprehension of geology concepts.

5, 6

Journal sharing

Students share selections from their writings.

Writing: 2.1 c

Written & oral: 1.1, 1.5, 1.6

Glacier shuffle

Students drag their feet across the ground, imitating glaciers — creating moraines, depositing erratics and shaping Yosemite Valley.

Listening & speaking: 1.3, 1.5

Valley formation

Students arrange images sequencing the stages of valley formation. In so doing, students also restate the geologic processes involved in the formation of the Sierra Nevada and Yosemite Valley.

1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6

Hiking

Throughout the day the group will hike approximately 4 miles over varied terrain from Curry Village to Mirror lake and back. Along the way, students will cross the Merced River, see and touch housesized boulders, visit Mirror Lake with its great views of Half Dome, and walk on the Medial Moraine.