ADDRESSING THE “THREE R'S” THROUGH GEOLOGY

In today's elementary classroom the main focus of learning is on the “three R's”; reading, writing, and arithmetic. New York State and National Learning Standards require a large focus on the three R's. This means that very little time is devoted to science. In addition, many teachers are uncertain in their ability to effectively teach science. Geology is great way to address the three R's and integrate science into an elementary classroom. Geology's broad topic base lends enough flexibility for teachers to choose topics that interests them and their students.

This project nick-named “Geology Rocks” gives examples how the three R's can be addressed through Geology. Geologic concepts can be tapped to supplement current reading, writing, and arithmetic curriculum. For example, writing can be addressed by having students journal about a geologic picture of the day, such as a picture of the aftermath of an earthquake. Reading can be addressed through the incorporation of books, like those on dinosaurs, earth history, or natural disasters. To address arithmetic, teachers and students can utilize online data to track and measure the speed and rate of a lava flow. The “Geology Rocks" project is a compilation of potential resources for the K-6 teacher that would enable geology to be incorporated into the everyday classroom.