A Changing Earth Enrichment Activities (Optional)

In science, we’ve been exploring our unit A Changing Earth. Students are learning how natural processes like the rock cycle, weathering, and plate tectonics constantly shape the world around us. These concepts help students see that Earth isn’t fixed—it’s dynamic and always changing!

For families who’d like to extend this learning at home, here are a few optional activities that connect our classroom discussions to the real world:

Optional Extension Ideas

• Rock Cycle Hunt: Take a walk around your neighborhood or a nearby park. See if your child can find examples of igneous, sedimentary, or metamorphic rocks. Even if they can’t identify them perfectly, just noticing differences in texture, color, and layers brings the concept to life.
  

• Weathering in Action: Look closely at sidewalks, bricks, or driveways. Cracks from water and temperature changes are great examples of weathering. Ask: What might have caused this crack?
  

• Plate Tectonics at Home: Pull out a world map and trace where major mountain ranges or earthquakes occur. Students will notice these often line up with plate boundaries!
  

Why It Matters

These optional extensions help students see that science is not just something we “learn” in class—it’s happening all around us. Observing, asking questions, and making connections at home deepens their curiosity and strengthens understanding.

These activities are not required, but they’re a fun way for families to share in the learning and spark conversations about how Earth is always changing.