Structure of the Earth Lesson Plans

Eighth graders examine the forces that are constantly acting on the Earth. They describe the theory of tectonic plates and demonstrate the two kinds of earthquake waves. They also examine the role of volcanoes in the structure of the Earth.

Students examine the Apollo lunar landings and past theories about the creation and structure of the Earth's Moon as a springboard for investigating missions and milestones in space exploration since the creation of NASA in 1958.

Fourth graders observe the effects of an earthquakes as it occurs. They study the structure of the Earth as it relates to the theory of plate tectonics. Students survey such events as mountain building, volcanoes, earthquakes, and sea-floor spreading at various plate boundaries. They identify areas where volcanic activity is likely to occur.

Fifth graders identify weather map symbols and describe the various types of weather each symbol represents. In this meteorology instructional activity, 5th graders participate in a scientific inquiry to observe the properties of material that come from Earth. Students also examine the structure of the Earth's system and identify questions regarding the use and design of a scientific investigation.

Students interpret and analyze a graph concerning temperature and the structure of the Earth's atmosphere. They analyze relationships between altitude, atmospheric temperature, and the different layers of the atmosphere.

Students examine the structure of the earth and how an earthquake happens. In one activity, students make a model of the earth including all of its layers. In a teacher-led demonstration, they study continental drift. In another activity, students create models demonstrating the different types of faults.

Students conduct two lab experiments related to the hardness and the color of rock. In this gifts from the earth instructional activity, students participate in inquiries to determine properties of earth's materials. Students explore the structure of the earth system, earth's history, and the earth's place in the universe.

Students work in teams to research a specific layer of the Earth. They access print, multimedia and Internet resources to collect text, graphic and photographic material for a slideshow. Students assemble a report for the class and record an accompanying audio track.

Eighth graders describe and identify the three layers of the Earth. They work together to construct their own earth model. They share their creation with the class.

Sixth graders examine the layers of the Earth and the changes that take place on a daily basis. They look at the layers of a boiled egg to relate them to the layers of the Earth.