What this lesson teaches
By constructing a model of Earth's layers, children visualize concepts of geology and planetary structure. This tangible representation helps them understand how each layer affects the planet's formation and function.
Can you finish build your earth layers in about 30 min?
You will by constructing a model of Earth's layers, children visualize concepts of geology and planetary structure.
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By constructing a model of Earth's layers, children visualize concepts of geology and planetary structure. This tangible representation helps them understand how each layer affects the planet's formation and function.
Using the Bruner's CPA approach, children first create a concrete model, then relate it to abstract geological concepts. This hands-on experience anchors their learning by connecting physical materials to ideas about Earth's structure.
1. Gather a large plastic ball (or a melon) and cut it in half. 2. Paint the inside of one half blue (ocean) and the other half brown (land). 3. Layer foam sheets as the crust, mantle, outer core, and inner core inside the blue half. 4. Label each layer with small sticky notes. 5. Tape the two halves together and present your Earth model. 6. Discuss with your family which layer you find most interesting and why.