CONNECTING TEXTBOOK FACTS TO GEOLOGIC RESEARCH METHODS IN MIDDLE SCHOOL SCIENCE USING ARC9 GIS, PLATE TECTONCIS DATA, AND BEACH SANDS

In an effort to introduce middle school students to geologic research methods concerning Earth's history, we developed an inquiry that combines current computer technology, hands-on laboratory experience, and constructivist education concepts. Our inquiry introduces seventh graders to a geographic information system, basic plate tectonics concepts, source rock analyses, and real-world geologic research methods. Students use currently known data regarding topography/bathymetry, earthquake distribution, and volcano distribution, and they record new data regarding sand composition and morphology from several beach sands collected from around the world. Then they use Arc9 GIS to make connections between current plate tectonics processes and nearby beach sand compositions. Finally, they extrapolate their connections regarding current environments to deduce ancient tectonic settings from ancient sandstone compositions. The inquiry introduces concepts pertinent to the rest of the earth science curriculum. We tested this inquiry at Hellgate Elementary School in Missoula, Montana. Hellgate students enjoyed the investigation, made new connections between seemingly unrelated topics (plate tectonics vs beach sands), and gained an appreciation for geologic research and the scientific method.