MINERALOGY 4 KIDS

Mineralogy 4 Kids is a new web site by the Mineralogical Society of America (http://www.minsocam.org/MSA/K12/K_12.html). As suggested in the title, the web site content covers mineralogy, crystallography, and introduces the rock cycle. Other features include uses of minerals in your everyday life, careers, "Ask–A–Mineralogist," and a teacher resource area. It is designed for use by children in the middle to upper elementary grades (4-8).

Pre–development preparation for this web site included a thorough review of current science, rock, and mineral web sites, especially those for kids. Also included was a review of the national teaching standards for the content material. In order to appeal to this age group, certain design features were included, such as the use of short sentences with a minimum of geologic terminology (geologic terms linked to a glossary), bright, colorful backgrounds and buttons, animation, interaction, and games.

At all times during the development of this web site was not "dumb down" the content but at the same time provide accurate geologic material. Several teachers volunteered to assist in this area. This site is under continual upgrading and changes as teachers, scientists, and especially children make their comments.

This project was funded by an NSF grant.