GEOLOGIC EDUCATION: A FOURTH GRADE GEOLOGY ENRICHMENT PROGRAM AT THE CLINTON ELEMENTARY SCHOOL IN CLINTON, NEW YORK

A six-week geologic enrichment program was designed and then implemented into several fourth grade classes at the Clinton Elementary School in Clinton, New York. The program focused on a variety of topics including maps, structure of the Earth, volcanoes, rocks, minerals, and fossils. Hands-on exercises and visual activities were incorporated into each lesson to promote active learning and encourage participation from all students. The exercises and activities were also designed to help the students answer a fundalmental question that was posed at the start of each class for critical thinking about major concepts. The enrichment program gave the students an opportunity to learn about basic geologic topics and a chance to share in the excitement of science.