Field Trips
- Grade Level:
- High School: Ninth Grade through Twelfth Grade
- Subject:
- Science,Social Studies
At this time, these units are not available for distribution.
The curriculum contains lesson plans that provide opportunities to study outstanding examples of different geologic processes and concepts. Pre-visit activities introduce students to relevant concepts in preparation for their park visit. On-site activity descriptions, maps, and worksheets are included for the park field trip itself. Post-visit activities are included to be completed after returning to school so that students can apply what they learned to their home environment. These units are independent of one another and self-guided on time and activities chosen.
To come to the park with students, please complete an academic fee waiver request.
All units are recommended for seventh through twelfth grade.
Hydrology and Groundwater
This unit focuses on how surface water and groundwater affect limestone terrain, and how karst topography evolves. Students explore the hydrology of a karst stream, investigate solution and deposition features in a cave, and create a hypothetical plan for developing a wetland.Landforms and Life Forms
This unit focuses on the interconnections between rock type, elevation, climate, weathering, and erosion, and how they impact biodiversity. Students learn how weathering and erosion have shaped the Blue Ridge Mountains and created habitats for living organisms.Soils and Watersheds
This unit encourages direct observation of geologic features that leads students to the realization that the an area's geology helps determine its soil type, plant community, and how humans use the land.Protecting Our Water Resources
This unit examines the steps that are taken by federal, state and local governments to protect drinking water sources from contamination. Students collect and analyze stream water samples and use the Environmental Protection Agency's Source Water Assessment program to investigate potential contaminants to the drinking water supply in the park. This unit includes Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping activities.Changing Face of Stony Man
This unit takes students on a journey through geologic time from a billion years ago to the present. They will discover how the rocks in Shenandoah National Park were formed, how they were pushed up into the mountains, and how the powerful forces of weathering and erosion continue to shape the landscape. This unit includes the use of Global Positioning System (GPS) technology and Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping activities.Obtaining Materials and Curriculum Guides
At this time, these units are not available for distribution. For further inquiries, please email the education office.Last updated: January 6, 2023