The Scientific Process
Science can help us address environmental challenges such as rising sea levels, the threat of natural hazards, access to resources, and changes to our climate system. This video uses a variety of examples from the geosciences and real life to provide an introduction to the processes of science. We discuss quantitative and qualitative data in terms of the composition of Earth's atmosphere and rocks formed by volcanoes. We describe interpretation using examples such as a large historical earthquake in the Pacific Northwest and the relationship between student grades and class attendance. Finally, we include a short activity for you to practice making observations, generating hypotheses, and making predictions.

Making Community Connections to Co-learn about Earthquakes
Many people live in regions prone to earthquakes, tsunamis and volcanic eruptions, but the hazards and risks inherent in our communities may be very different. Making connections with learners from another location is a great way to share knowledge and practice science communication skills. Video conferencing applications like Zoom and Skype make it possible to connect with learners anywhere in the world. This activity provides a simple protocol, and a form for submitting a request to connect with a classroom teacher in Anchorage, Alaska.

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.

Alaskan Volcanoes & Hazards Presentation
This lecture and associated animations give a basic introduction to Alaskan volcanoes, volcanic hazards, and volcano monitoring.

Earthquake Case Study
This activity is a multiple case study analysis of different earthquakes that leads to student interpretation of claims, evidence and prediction/recommendations.

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.

Interpreting Fossil Assemblages
This assignment is a synthesis of many of the skills learned throughout the course from taxonomic identification to paleoecological interpretations.