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Essential Activities for Essential Earth Science Lessons: Geologic Cores

Middle School

So, that's where your old iPod went from 2003!

Ever wonder how geologists and paleontologists date the prehistoric discoveries that they dig up? Using the geologic core sampling and relative age dating techniques that students will learn in this easy, affordable hands-on STEM activity, of course.

Using just a few simple supplies,  we'll show you how easy it is to incorporate NGSS-aligned STEM concepts into your hands-on earth science lessons and create inspiring activities where students see real-world connections between science and everyday careers.

In this activity, students assume the roles of chief geologist, sedimentologist, paleontologist and geologic historian as they create clay stratigraphic models with embedded "fossils" and "mineral deposits," and use core sampling methods to investigate Earth's history. 

Watch the video to see how it's done. 

Ready to dig in?

Get the Activity Kit