This brief demonstration can serve as an introduction to other environmental activities related to water resources. It shows how little fresh water is available for our use and introduces the concept of a limited water supply and the need to protect water resources. It works well in an informal outdoor setting or in a classroom. Full description.

This presentation gives students information about all aspects of satellite oceanography. It explains how the satellites are launched into orbit and how the orbit is maintained, the difference between polar orbiting and geostationary satellites, and the difference between active and passive observation. Other topics include how satellites gather data on sea surface temperature, air-sea interactions, ... Full description.

This handout lists major events in Earth history with approximate ages (in millions of years before present). The calendar date is determined by setting midnight, January 1, to correspond with the formation of the Earth, and setting the following midnight, December 31, to correspond to the present. Thus, the entire history of the Earth is displayed as a single calendar year. Full description.

These lecture notes describe the ecological relationship between plants, vertebrate animals, and insects through geological time from the Silurian Period to the present. The author, Dr. Tiffney, also demonstrates how the energy flow through the ecosystem changes over the course of geologic time. Full description.

This is a demonstration of the Core Shadow Zone of the Earth. Using a clear or translucent half-sphere held in front of a light source, the refracting properties of the core and how it generates the shadow zone on the surface are illustrated. Full description.

This demonstration reinforces the concept that minerals can form even at low temperatures, meaning that these processes can occur at or near Earth's surface. Using 'water glass' (sodium silicate nanahydrate) and any of a variety of metal salts, the teacher can grow crystals of silicate at room temperature in a container as the students watch and record their observations. A student worksheet and discussion ... Full description.

This demonstration illustrates the properties of the mantle of the Earth, using potty putty mixed with a solution of borax and simple glue. When left on the desk the potty putty will sink and spread. However it will also bounce like a ball if enough borax is used and it can be stretched far more than plasticine if pulled gently, but can also be fractured if pulled suddenly. Students will discover ... Full description.

This PowerPoint presentation introduces more advanced ideas on topographic map interpretation. Topics include the processes of stream erosion, the stages of stream development, and drainage patterns. There is also a tutorial on how to create a topographic profile and a selection of examples of various landforms accompanied by map views for interpretation. Full description.

This slide show provides an introduction to paleontology for younger students. The slides show a variety of plant and anmal fossils, and are accompanied by a brief written narrative. Paleontologists are shown at work excavating and preparing fossils, and some National Park exhibits and facilities are also depicted. Links to a curriculum guide and to a downloadable Powerpoint version of the show are ... Full description.

In this activity, students observe fluid motion and the formation of convection cells as a solution of soap and water is heated. This procedure can be performed as a demonstration by the teacher, or older students can conduct the experiment themselves. A list of materials, instructions, and a description of the convective process are included. Full description.