Field Trips

Rocky Rangers: Elementary Earth Science

Grade Level:
Upper Elementary: Third Grade through Fifth Grade
Subject:
Science
State Standards:
Colorado Academic Standards (CAS 2020) aligned with Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS 2020). Grade Level Expectations (Disciplinary Core Ideas): ESS1.C, ESS2.A, ESS3.B, LS4.A

Topics in this Program

  • Erosion & Natural Disasters
  • Fossils
  • Rock Cycle
  • Rock Types (sedimentary, metamorphic, igneous)

For a multiple-classroom field trip:

Students will rotate in small groups between four 35-minute stations, centered at Devils Kitchen Picnic Area (Grand Junction side). There will be a 25-minute lunch break at 11:45am, followed by a brief recess and clean-up before the next activities. Stations for this program include:

  1. Constructing model landscapes in the sand to observe effects of wind and water erosion
  2. Exploring different types of fossils and sedimentary rocks found within Colorado National Monument
  3. Modeling the process of metamorphism through a crafting activity
  4. Playing a game that represents movement of magma and igneous rock formation

Essential Questions

  • In what ways does the rock cycle shape the landscape of the Grand Valley? (addresses Grade Level Expectations) 
  • What can we learn from the rock cycle about handling change in our own lives? (addresses Social Emotional Learning) 

Duration

3.5 hrs (10am to 1:30pm)

Tags: earth science field trips steam education stem education parks as classrooms rock cycle rock types fossils erosion environmental education school programs every kid outdoors open outdoors for kids field trip activity social emotional learning

Last updated: December 31, 2024