Objective
The objective of this lesson is for the student to review the layers of the Earth using Lego bricks, enhancing their understanding of Earth Science.
Materials and Prep
- Lego bricks in different colors (brown, orange, yellow, blue, green)
- A large flat surface to build on (table, floor, etc.)
- Prior knowledge of the layers of the Earth
Activities
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Start by reviewing the layers of the Earth with the student, discussing the names and characteristics of each layer.
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Using the Lego bricks, instruct the student to build a model of the Earth's layers. Assign a different color to each layer (brown for the inner core, orange for the outer core, yellow for the mantle, blue for the upper mantle, and green for the crust).
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Encourage the student to label each layer as they build, reinforcing their understanding of the different layers.
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Once the model is complete, have the student explain each layer to you, using their Lego model as a visual aid.
Fourth Grade Talking Points
- "The Earth is made up of different layers, just like a Lego tower has different blocks."
- "The innermost layer of the Earth is called the inner core. It is made mostly of solid iron and is very hot."
- "The outer core is the layer surrounding the inner core. It is liquid and made of iron and nickel."
- "The mantle is the thickest layer of the Earth. It is made of hot, semi-solid rock."
- "The upper mantle is located just below the crust and is also made of hot rock. It is not as solid as the lower mantle."
- "The crust is the outermost layer of the Earth. It is the thinnest layer and is made of solid rock. It is where we live!"