GEOLOGY IN COLORS: USING SIMPLIFIED, COLORABLE GEOLOGIC MAPS AS A VISUAL AND INTERACTIVE TOOL TO ENGAGE A WIDE AUDIENCE IN EARTH SCIENCE PRINCIPLES

Although experienced geologists are well aware of the importance of geologic maps as a tool to visualize the age and distribution of the rocks on Earth’s surface, most of these maps are often too complex, too detailed, and too jargon-filled for non-geologists to understand. The ability of geologic maps to illustrate the basic processes acting on our planet over long periods of time, however, is unparalleled and they should not be disregarded as a teaching tool for introductory students. To address this issue, I have created a series of simplified geologic maps that are designed to be colored by students either in the classroom as part of an instructor-led exercise, or as a take-home project that supplements in-class learning. To make geologic maps inviting to non-experience geologists, I used Adobe Illustrator to trace simplified distributions of rock over more detailed, published maps. Each map is accompanied by a geologic time scale and a coloring key that illustrates the basic divisions of rock types (volcanic, plutonic, sedimentary, metamorphic) and geologic time (eons, eras, periods, and epochs). Coloring provides a hands-on, sensory experience that allows students to visualize geologic history and time-progressive geologic processes in four dimensions. Different maps are used to highlight Earth Science processes occurring at the numerous scales of geologic time. Although simplified, complex concepts can be demonstrated with these maps, making them an appropriate tool to engage in students of varying abilities, who are often found within the same classroom. These maps are designed to be printed using the Tabloid paper size (11 x 17 inches) that is standard on most office printers. Examples available to take home and color yourself and to share with your students.