Geophysics is like being a detective for the Earth!

Geophysics is the physics of how the earth works, uncovering what lies below our ground. The Earth is made up of many different layers with unique properties, and through a seismic survey, which is an experiment that measures the vibrations in the ground, scientists can find out what is under the ground.

This pack provides instructions for arranging an interactive ‘treasure hunt’ lesson in Edinburgh, based at the University of Edinburgh’s King’s Buildings campus, to develop an understanding of geophysics and an ability to carry out experiments. As this lesson can be adapted for a range of classes, the corresponding learning outcomes met will vary according to which lesson plan is used. Students are placed in groups to follow instructions and achieve a collaborative goal, and are then encouraged to draw conclusions from the data collected through the experiments.

 

Background:

The resource was created as a part of a Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) outreach and widening participation initiative. It has been created for use as an Open Educational Resource (OER) by OER Service, the Information Services Group at the University. As an OER, teachers are welcome to make any changes to their resources according to their needs.

 

Objectives and Success Criteria:

Level 1

• I understand what geophysics is.
• I understand that the Earth is made up of different layers with unique properties.
• I understand that geophysics can be used to uncover materials beneath the surface.
• I can work in a team to reach a collaborative goal.
• I can carry out a simple seismic survey.
• I can follow instructions to set up and conduct an experiment.
• I know how to use a simple map to locate features or interpret data.
• I understand that different rocks and materials have different physical properties.

Level 2-4

• I understand what geophysics is and its applications.
• I understand that the Earth is made up of layers with different properties.
• I understand that geophysics can be used to uncover materials beneath the surface.
• I can collaborate effectively within a team to achieve a shared goal.
• I know how to carry out a simple geophysical survey.
• I can use a simple map to locate specific areas.
• I understand that different rocks and materials have different properties.
• I can apply equations to solve variables related to geophysical surveys.

Level 3-4

• I understand what geophysics is and its applications to uncovering materials beneath the surface.
• I understand that rocks beneath the surface have different properties such as resistivity.
• I can collaborate within a team to follow instructions, take initiative and achieve a shared goal.
• I know how to carry out a simple geophysical survey and the equipment used.
• I can use a map and grid reference system to identify and locate specific areas.
• I can apply equations to solve variables related to geophysical surveys.

 

Experiences and Outcomes:

For a Level 1 class

SCN 0-20a: I can talk about science stories to develop my understanding of science and the world around me.

SCN 0-15a: Through creative play, I explore different materials and can share my reasoning for selecting materials for different purposes.

MNU 0-11a: I have experimented with everyday items as units of measure to investigate and compare sizes and amounts in my environment, sharing my findings with others.

MTH 0-17a: In movement, games, and using technology I can use simple directions and describe positions.

For a Level 2-4 class

SCN 1-11a: By collaborating in experiments on different ways of producing sound from vibrations, I can demonstrate how to change the pitch of the sound.

SCN 1-20a: I have contributed to discussions of current scientific news items to help develop my awareness of science.

MNU 1-01a: I can share ideas with others to develop ways of estimating the answer to a calculation or problem, work out the actual answer, then check my solution by comparing it with the estimate.

MNU 1-03a: I can use addition, subtraction, multiplication and division when solving problems, making best use of the mental strategies and written skills I have developed.

MTH 1-12a: I have discussed the important part that numbers play in the world and explored a variety of systems that have been used by civilisations throughout history to record numbers.

MTH 1-18a: I have developed an awareness of where grid reference systems are used in everyday contexts and can use them to locate and describe position.

For a Level 3-4 class

SCN 3-05a: By contributing to experiments and investigations, I can develop my understanding of models of matter and can apply this to changes of state and the energy involved as they occur in nature.

SCN 3-11b: By exploring radiations beyond the visible, I can describe a selected application, discussing the advantages and limitations.

SCN 3-17a: Through evaluation of a range of data, I can describe the formation, characteristics and uses of soils, minerals and basic types of rocks.

SCN 3-17b: I can participate in practical activities to extract useful substances from natural resources.

MTH 3-15b: I can create and evaluate a simple formula representing information contained in a diagram, problem or statement.

MTH 2-18a / MTH 3-18a: I can use my knowledge of the coordinate system to plot and describe the location of a point on a grid.

MNU 3-20a: I can work collaboratively, making appropriate use of technology, to source information presented in a range of ways, interpret what it conveys and discuss whether I believe the information to be robust, vague or misleading.

 

Check out this resource if you’d like to give your class a fun treasure hunt, discovering what lies beneath the ground we stand on!

View and download Esther’s resource on Tes.com

 

Header: An illustrated map of the University of Edinburgh’s King’s Buildings