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Dig This! Erosion Investigation
Background Information

Created by Melissa Breuer
Wilmington School District


Summary: Dig This! Erosion Investigation is actually five activities in one inquiry. In How Does Erosion Affect My World? students identify erosion problems at their school. In What Are the Different Kinds of Erosion? students investigate splash, wind, and fluvial (water) erosion through classroom activities. In Becoming an Erosion Expert students research erosion in-depth. In How Can We Solve Erosion Problems? students work in teams to create proposed solutions to schoolyard erosion problems. In Taking Action on Erosion student proposals selected through peer and teacher review are submitted to various community groups so that volunteers, advice, and materials can be gathered to complete the Action Plan. The Family Page extends this learning by inviting parents to facilitate home and community observations, discussion, and action related to erosion.

Related Topics: soil, plants, air/water, agriculture, quality, weather, water cycle, ecology, engineering, forests/ forestry.

Ohio Academic Standards Alignment: Click here to view content standards alignment to Science for Ohio by grade level.

Background Information:

"Erosion and sedimentation are complimentary geological processes."

Misconception(s). Misconception: Students tend to think of natural geologic erosion as being as large-scale and fast-paced as the types of erosion which occur due to human activity. Fact: Natural geologic erosion is a very slow, small-scale form of erosion.

Cautions: Wear old clothing when investigating and working outside, wash hands following investigation, teach proper handling and storage of tools, and watch for poison ivy.

Expected Results: Students will propose plans to correct erosion problems on their school grounds that may lead to implementation. Students will learn about the different types of erosion and further develop their observation skills and group teamwork.