Exploring the nature of geoscience using cartoon cards
In this activity, students work in groups to put a set of cartoon cards in order, much in the way that we might assemble a geologic history. The primary goal of the activity is to explore the nature of science in general and the nature of geoscience or historical science specifically, without requiring any content knowledge.

Science in My Backyard
In this lab report writing assignment, students will use the scientific method to solve a real life problem from their own lives. Students use the scientific method to record observations, develop a hypothesis, and set up their experimental design, which they then actually carry out. This approach allows students to practice using the process of science without the intimidation of scientific terms and concepts.

Introduction to the methods of geoscience
In this activity, students are introduced to the methods of inquiry in the Earth sciences and how they differ from what is classically taught in school science.

Oil Demand and Consumption
Data modeling activity using oil reserve and consumption data. Students predict when oil reserves meet or exceed reserves.

Scientific Observation Activity
This activity is an introduction to making scientific observations and exploring those observations. It is designed for students unfamiliar or uncomfortable with science.

Design a Paper Car: Exploring the Scientific Method
An engineering design project modified to teach the scientific methos, promote team-builing, and engage students at the beginning of a physics course.

Interpreting the Geologic History of Canyon de Chelly
The is a two part lesson designed to given in-service teacher an experience in field geology. The lesson is designed by Canyon de Chelly, AZ but can be used anywhere there are outcrops of two or more rock types.

Riparian Plant Lab
In this field exercise for an introductory environmental science course, students investigate plant cover and type in a riparian area using transects. The final assignment is a lab report that includes a summary data table, a graph of cover types along their transect and an analysis of riparian health.

Relative Age-dating -- Discovery of Important Stratigraphic Principles
Students don't have to be passively taught the important principles geologists use to do relative age-dating of rocks and geologic events. By careful analysis and critical thinking about photos and ...

Teaching Molecular Evolution and Phylogenetics
This activity uses DNA sequences, protein sequence, and chromosome-density maps to re-trace the ancestry of humans and some of their closest relatives.