Earth Science K-12 Education Resources

Through the Canadian Geological Foundation and Vancouver Island University, the goal of this project was to provide geologic samples, guided lab activities and local inquiry projects to primary, intermediate and secondary students across British Columbia that align with BC Curriculum. The Earth Sciences Education Kits were made available through Vancouver Island University and consist of geologic samples of a variety of common rocks and minerals. Educators also have access to a compiled list and links to online resources under Earth Sciences Education Resources tab, including Earth Science Texts, Geographic Information System (GIS) Resources, Mineral and Rock Identification Guides, Printable Classroom Resources, Teaching Activities as well as Vancouver Island Field Trips. 

The program was a success and we have donated rock and mineral kits to over a dozen schools on Vancouver Island and province-wide.  Due to the high demand, we are looking to expand on this project to build more sample kits.  Please contact Gerri McEwen, Earth Science Department Technician for more information.

 

Earth Sciences Education and Inquiry Kit 

(Recommended for Grade 5 to Grade 12) 

This education kit is geared towards upper intermediate and secondary students that are studying earth sciences. All lessons and activities using these kits can be scaffolded or adapted to suit the needs of your students.

Introduction to Geology 

Mineral Identification 

Students will have the opportunity to observe physical properties with the purpose of classifying ten minerals within each kit. By observing colour, lustre, hardness and cleavage, the students will be able to identify each mineral sample. 

  • Mineral Identification Lab Word PDF

Rock Identification

Students will observe and record the physical properties of provided twenty rock samples and use this data to identify and classify igneous, sedimentary and metamorphic rocks in this lab. By observing colour, streak, lustre, hardness, magnetism, reaction with acid (vinegar), cleavage the students will be able to guide the inquiry with a Rock Identification Chart to classify each sample and determine the rock family. 

Geological Time Scale and Fossils

This lab will consist of students observing and recording data on the provided fossil samples. Students will sketch three of the eight fossils, classify the type of fossil and relate the fossil to the Geological Time Scale (GTS).