Exploring Earth's Hidden Layers
A Journey into Earth's Structure Grade 6 Science Investigation NGSS Standards MS-ESS2-1 & MS-ESS2-2
What Do You Think Earth's Surface Is Made Of?
Think about what you see when you dig in your backyard Consider different places: beaches, mountains, cities How might things under the surface be different from what we see?
Earth's Surface Components
Sediment: Loose materials like sand, soil, and small rocks Bedrock: Solid rock that forms Earth's foundation Sediment sits on top of bedrock in many places Sometimes bedrock is exposed at the surface
Build Your Earth Layer Model
Use clear containers and materials provided Create layers showing sediment on top Show where bedrock might be found Label your model components Prepare to explain your model to classmates
What Happens Deeper Underground?
Temperature increases with depth Pressure increases from weight above Heat and pressure change rock properties Rocks become denser and harder This affects how rocks behave during earthquakes
Ocean vs. Continental Rock Comparison
{"left":"Ocean crust is denser and heavier\nContinental crust is less dense and lighter\nOcean rock is mostly basalt","right":"Continental rock includes granite and other types\nDensity differences affect how Earth's surface moves\nThis helps explain earthquakes and mountain formation"}
Update Your Earth Model
Add features showing compressed rock layers Show denser ocean crust vs. lighter continental crust Include labels for heat and pressure effects Connect your model to earthquake behavior Prepare to explain how bedrock properties affect surface changes
Connecting to Earthquakes
"The properties of bedrock beneath our feet determine how the ground shakes during earthquakes and how mountains form over millions of years."