Earth Science Week teacher toolkits available for Ohio educators
COLUMBUS, OH – Ohioans are invited to join the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) in exploring the state’s natural history during Earth Science Week, Oct. 8–14. Geologists will give talks and lead hikes and fossil collecting throughout the state at parks, preserves and other important geologic sites.
As part of National Earth Science Week—themed “Earth and Human Activity”—the celebration engages young people and the public to promote awareness of what geoscience tells us about human interaction with Earth’s natural systems and processes, fostering responsible stewardship of the natural environment.
Now in its 20th year, Earth Science Week is sponsored by the American Geological Institute. The event encourages people to learn more about the geosciences, promotes an awareness of the natural world and features several Focus Days, which target particular themes, such as science literacy, fossils and geoscience careers.
This year, the ODNR Division of Geological Survey will begin the celebration on Saturday, Oct. 7. Staff geologists will visit classrooms and be available at several hikes and other events at various sites, including Mohican and Caesar Creek state parks, Blackhand Gorge State Nature Preserve and the Ohio Statehouse. A complete list of events is available at geosurvey.ohiodnr.gov, along with various free resources, such as walking tour guides, leaflets and maps Ohioans can use to explore the state’s geology.
Also available to Ohio teachers and educators are a limited number of Earth Science Week teacher toolkits. The toolkits include experiment instructions, a calendar, posters, activity sheets and more materials for teachers to use in the classroom. Toolkits are free (except shipping) for any Ohio teacher, while supplies last.
The ODNR Division of Geological Survey also is offering special discounts on guidebooks, maps, educational materials and more. Items published before 2000 are marked down 75 percent, and items published in 2000 and after are 25 percent off. The sale runs during the entire month of October. Visit OhioGeology.com for full details.
Teacher toolkits, maps and publications can be ordered by visiting the Geologic Records Center, 2045 Morse Road, Building C-1, Columbus, 43229 or by calling 614-265-6576.
The ODNR Division of Geological Survey encourages teachers and all Ohioans to take advantage of the opportunities available during Earth Science Week to explore and learn more about the geology beneath their feet.
ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.gov.
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