The Earth's Layers and Spheres

This year, we are shifting our focus in science to earth and space science. This is exciting for us because the girls haven't spent much time in this area. To make it even better, we have a few families that are working with us to complete lab activities. So far, they have been a hit with all of the girls.

 First on our stop was the study of the earth's layers and its spheres. We watched some great videos found on YouTube.  The girls favorite was the Layers of the Earth Rap! That song has really stuck with them!


 
Resources we used:

• Earth Layers:
• Spelling/Vocabulary list: Earth's Layers 
• http://mjksciteachingideas.com/plate.html  (powerpoint presentation and foldable)
• http://www.kidsgeo.com/geology-for-kids/0019-inside-of-earth.php 
• http://www.neok12.com/diagram/Earth-01.htm 
• http://www.manatee.k12.fl.us/sites/elementary/samoset/5altensciearth2.htm 
• Digging Through the Earth: Video
• Digging Through the Earth: Lesson plans and handouts

 

 
•  Earth Spheres:
• http://www.cotf.edu/ete/modules/msese/earthsysflr/spheres.html
• http://www.classzone.com/books/earth_science/terc/content/investigations/es0103/es0103page01.cfm
• http://www.freeclubweb.com/powerpoints/science/spheres.html (powerpoint presentations)

During our group lab session, we discussed the layers of the earth and built scale models of the earth.  We also viewed real core samples from the that were brought in by another parent!

   

 

Supplies:

• Large Styrofoam ball (cut in half)
• Acrylic paint (4 different colors)
• Velcro dots
• Heavy card stock
• 1 1/2 inch hinge (found in hardware store near door hinges)
• Super glue
• Index cards

After coloring in each layer, we created index cards listing the facts about each layer on one side and the name of the layer on the other.  With the heavy card stock, we cut out  small squares and labeled the layers.  After the paint dried, we applied the Velcro dots to the model and applied the correct label to its part.  The hinge joint was then used to attach the two halves.  Be sure to use the super glue on the screws to hold them in place.  Our completed model were all finished and looked great!  We have more to add to them when we reach our lesson on plate tectonics so check back with us then.

If you're looking for a simpler model, I found one made by Canon that can be printed and assembled here.

Book list:

•  Earth's Crust by: Conrad Storad
• Earth's Core and Mantle by: Gregory Vogt
• The Lithosphere by: Gregory Vogt
• The Biosphere by: Gregory Vogt
• The Hydrosphere by: Gregory Vogt

Well that wraps up our study of the earth's layers.  We enjoyed it and are looking forward to learning more about our precious planet.