6th Grade  Lesson 55 minutes

"Rock Around the Clock: Geologic Time!"

Kathy R
MS-ESS1-4
MS-ESS1-4
MS-ESS2-3
Self Directed Learning
Academic Mindset
+ 1 more
1-pager

Purpose

The purpose of this learning experience is to engage students in a hands-on exploration of Earth's geologic history, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills through interactive projects and community collaboration. By analyzing rock strata and fossil data, students will construct timelines and exhibits that illustrate major geologic events, enhancing their understanding of Earth's dynamic past. This approach aims to deepen students' self-directed learning and academic mindset, encouraging them to connect personally with the material and reflect on its significance in their lives and communities.

Learning goals

Students will construct a scientific explanation of Earth's history using evidence from rock strata, developing an understanding of the geologic time scale. They will analyze data related to fossils, rocks, and seafloor structures to interpret past plate motions. Through self-directed learning, students will engage in critical reflection and action, building a sense of identity and belonging. They will collaborate with community partners and use innovative approaches to address complex questions about Earth's history.
Standards
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] MS-ESS1-4 - Construct a scientific explanation based on evidence from rock strata for how the geologic time scale is used to organize Earth's 4.6-billion-year-old history.
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] MS-ESS1-4 - Construct a scientific explanation based on evidence from rock strata for how the geologic time scale is used to organize Earth's 4.6-billion-year-old history.
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] MS-ESS2-3 - Analyze and interpret data on the distribution of fossils and rocks, continental shapes, and seafloor structures to provide evidence of the past plate motions.
Competencies
  • Self Directed Learning - Students use teacher and peer feedback and self-reflection to monitor and direct their own learning while building self knowledge both in and out of the classroom.
  • Academic Mindset - Students establish a sense of place, identity, and belonging to increase self-efficacy while engaging in critical reflection and action.
  • Critical Thinking & Problem Solving - Students consider a variety of innovative approaches to address and understand complex questions that are authentic and important to their communities.

Products

Students will collaboratively design a large-scale geologic timeline mural that visually represents Earth's major geologic periods, integrating key events, climate changes, and life forms. They will also create individual digital presentations or models that highlight specific geologic periods, which will be showcased during the 'Journey Through Time' event. Additionally, students will produce reflective journal entries capturing their personal insights and connections to geologic time, which can be compiled into a class anthology to share with the community.

Launch

Begin the lesson by showing a captivating short video that highlights the dramatic changes in Earth's landscape and life forms over billions of years. Follow the video with an interactive class discussion where students share their initial thoughts and questions about Earth's history. Encourage students to brainstorm what they already know about geologic time and what they are curious to learn, setting the stage for their exploration of geologic periods and the creation of their own timelines.

Exhibition

Students will design and present interactive exhibits that depict different geologic periods during a 'Journey Through Time' event. They will use models, posters, and digital presentations to illustrate the climate, life forms, and land formations of their assigned periods. Family members and community guests will be invited to engage with the exhibits, ask questions, and learn from the students' research and creative presentations.