3 West: Learning on Seismic Levels

Students were introduced to the Geology Rocks script before winter break. They started with read-throughs, then ranked and selected their roles, which included solos, duets, trios, and parts with many lines to memorize. At home, students practiced their parts and songs and rehearsed weekly in class. They worked on song practice, choreography, voice projection, stage confidence, and managing performance nerves. After months of effort, both classes delivered impressive performances that showcased their growth and hard work.

The play also supported students' academic vocabulary and content knowledge. For example, when students learned about the rock cycle, many found they had already memorized key information about the three types of rocks—igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic—from their roles in the play. The repetition of scientific terminology in songs and dialogue helped deepen their understanding, making the concepts more accessible and enjoyable.

No Live Oak School unit would be complete without hands-on exploration. Students began by plotting volcano locations on a world map, identifying patterns, and discovering the Pacific Ocean's "Ring of Fire." We discussed how geologists help communities plan for Earth changing events and stay safe. Using sugar cube models, students explored weathering and erosion, seeing how natural forces shape the Earth over time. When learning about the rock cycle, students used crayon shavings and hot water to model how heat and pressure transform rocks over time. Students also conducted tests to examine rocks' properties, such as luster, grain size, hardness, and reactivity. These activities helped students connect abstract scientific concepts to concrete experiences.

The unit will conclude with a field trip to Devil’s Slide, where students will apply their learning in a real-world environment. They will identify rocks, analyze their properties, observe the effects of erosion firsthand, and study the effects of continental plate collisions. This ‘field study’ allows students to deepen their understanding of geology and see how their classroom learning applies to the natural world.