Question
Students will brainstorm investigable questions related to geological processes of a specific time period, using collaborative group sessions to explore how past geoscience events may have shaped the Earth's current surface.
Days 1 - 4
40 min over capacity (220 min available across 4 days)
Geological Time Spark
Launch 60m
Time Machine Kickoff
Launch 50m
Question Crafting Sprint
Deliverable 60m
Craft Research Questions
Deliverable 90m
Design
Students will collaboratively design detailed research plans, identifying specific questions and methodologies to investigate geological processes within their assigned time period, while ensuring alignment with the core content and essential question.
Days 5 - 9
Geologic Investigation Plan
Deliverable 60m
Geologic Background Review
Deliverable 50m
Collect
Students will conduct comprehensive research using scientific databases, rock samples, and fossil records to gather evidence of geological processes during their chosen time period while maintaining detailed notes and organizing findings for future analysis in their project journals.
Days 10 - 14
Evidence Collection Log
Deliverable 75m
Geologic Time Expo
Assessment 2m
Analyze
Students will analyze data gathered from diverse sources on their selected geological time period, interpreting patterns and correlating evidence to craft a coherent scientific explanation of historical geoscience processes and their impacts on Earth's surface.
Days 15 - 20
Geologic Data Analysis
Deliverable 60m
Early Findings Summary
Deliverable 75m
Conclude
Students will synthesize their findings into a comprehensive scientific explanation highlighting the geological processes of their chosen time period, share their conclusions at a student-led conference, critically evaluate any limitations of their research, and engage in a reflective Socratic seminar to discuss diverse perspectives and collaborative insights.
Days 21 - 25
Inquiry Process Reflection
Deliverable 45m