This is one lesson in the geography theme with the driving question, "What is Geography?".

Physical, Earth, and Life Science for fourth grade. Used and maintained by the Utah State Board of Education

The purpose of this lesson is to introduce students to the basic elements of our Earth's crust: rocks, soils and minerals. They learn how we categorize rocks, soils and minerals and how they are literally the foundation for our civilization. Students also explore how engineers use rocks, soils and minerals to create the buildings, roads, vehicles, electronics, chemicals, and other objects we use to enhance our lives.

Students work in small groups to research, identify, and label food webs on the Michigan DNR Non-Game Wildlife posters. Students then predict the possible consequences of removing one component of the food web.

Suggestions and resources for hands-on activities to teach elementary students about rocks and minerals.

Students learn about the importance of dams by watching a video that presents historical and current information on dams, as well as descriptions of global water resources and the hydrologic cycle. Students also learn about different types of dams, all designed to resist the forces on dams. (If the free, 15-minute "Water and Dams in Today's World" video cannot be obtained in time, the lesson can still be taught. See the Additional Multimedia Support section for how to obtain the DVD or VHS videotape, or a PowerPoint presentation with similar content [also attached].)