We began our study of the Earth by learning about it's layers.
We learned what each layer is made of and used colored play dough to create each one:
inner core
outer core
mantle
crust
The students also created a 3D model showing the outside of the Earth and then the inside layers as well.
After learning what is in the Earth, we learned what is on the Earth!
We learned about so many different types of landforms. To help the kids really understand what each landform looks like, we used sand in a dish to create them!
Then, to show our learning and teach others about landforms, students created a mural in the hallway! Each group was given a couple landforms to create using the materials in our classroom.
Our landform mural!
Instead of just labeling each landform, we decided to create a little game for readers! On the outside of the flaps is a question describing the landform and then the reader flips it open to figure out the answer!
What is a land with grass growing on it?
Grassland!
Then, we looked at topographic maps of different areas in the United States to locate and label landforms.
They used words on the map to help them identify the landforms but students also used their hands to find mountain ranges, valleys, and plains. (A topographic map shows elevation changes in the Earth's surface in 3D.) The kids had a blast with this activity!
Throughout our unit, we have learned the seven continents and five oceans. Students used maps to locate landforms on the continents. The students had certain symbols to draw for each landform they found.
Using these maps as guides, students drew landforms on each continent for our hallway map.
The labels are in a clear pocket so students can take them out and test themselves on the names of the continents and oceans!
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