SURFICIAL GEOLOGIC MAPPING AS A DISCOVERY-BASED TEACHING TOOL FOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS

Surficial geologic mapping can be used for developing discovery-based science education at the high school level. The "hands-on" nature of geological mapping is a wonderful tool for students to make observations, test hypotheses, and draw conclusions. The program we are developing at Souhegan High School includes the development of a mapping unit for the physical science curriculum, where students learn basic sedimentology and glaciology in order to collect samples and make observations around the school and their homes. Students who demonstrate a keen interest will have the opportunity to receive additional training from geologists with the New Hampshire Geological Survey (NHGS). Comprehensive instruction and mentoring by NHGS geologists will provide the students with training to read topographic maps, and identify glacial features, landforms, and deposits. NHGS will also supply maps and subsurface data from water well information. Additionally, students will learn methods for collecting soil samples, digging trenches, auguring exploration boreholes, and describing soils and sediments. Students will also take digital photographs to document their field observations, and locate sampling sites using GPS and GIS. The Souhegan High School Information Technology Section will build and maintain a web site for students to display and transfer their data to other students and NHGS mappers. The surficial geology data will ultimately be used by NHGS to create more complete geological coverage of a particular study area. The NHGS will also work cooperatively with the Souhegan High School information technology specialists to link our web page with the school’s in order to share geological data that is collected by the students, and highlight the program as an example for other schools to use in their science education efforts. From the NHGS standpoint, the students bring inquisitive minds and energy to collect data that will supplement the work being conducted by mapping professionals. The students gain "hands-on" scientific training as well as the opportunity to actively participate in New Hampshire’s Cooperative STATEMAP geological mapping program, and contribute to a product that benefits society. This project is funded by a Toyota Corporation Tapestry Grant.