Fourth graders at Merrimac Elementary School are learning about our changing planet. Recently, they explored how rivers have changed the shape of the United States. Through a series of experiments, the students learned how weathering and erosion creates landforms and rock formations.

Students in Mrs. Mazzaglia’s class worked together in groups to create a stream table to investigate the effect of the flow of water. During the hands-on experiment, they used materials including soil, sand, toothpicks and water. Students observed pieces of sediment coming loose and forming a delta, the beginning of a canyon formation, and sediments being deposited into their catch pans.

In follow-up experiments, students explored how and why rocks form in layers using perfect cast solution. The class completed its unit by learning about fossils and how they are formed.

Date Added: 6/22/2022