Grades 6-7

New teachers must attend the January 10, 2009 Teacher Workshop.
All participating teachers must complete an application.

Here's your chance to take your class on a hike through underwater volcanoes that erupted millions of years ago. Students study the global geologic forces that formed today's dramatic Bay Area landscape, and then come to the Marin Headlands to conduct a geologic investigation to unveil how these global forces are recorded in local rocks. Activities challenge students to use observational and critical-thinking skills to speculate about possible future geologic developments.

Program Description

Rocks on the Move utilizes a cooperative learning model. Lessons are organized so students can build on the knowledge they have already gained. The program helps students achieve standards for earth and space science (structure of the earth system and natural hazards).

• Pre-visit activities introduce students to plate tectonics by taking a close look at earthquakes and volcanoes through maps, background reading and Tectonic Jeopardy.
• A classroom visit from National Park Service staff helps students develop an understanding of Marin Headlands geology through fun learning activities like Edible Geology.
• A geology field experience in the Marin Headlands brings students to study and map the rocks of the Point Bonita Lighthouse or nearby area.
• Post-visit activities engage students in the exchange of data so they can collaborate on a geologic map of the Marin Headlands trail, including field observations such as animals, plants, sounds, and smells. Students reflect on their experiences as learners before the visit and as geologists along the trail.

Visit PARK Teachers, our new online resource center for teaching geology. Get your students into the Subduction Construction zone to delve deeper into plate tectonics and the Franciscan Complex.