Junior Geoscientist

Scenic view at Widewater.

NPS Photo / C&O Canal NHP

 

Welcome future Geoscientist!

Geoscience is the study of the Earth. Geoscience studies rocks, volcanoes, the ways that Earth's surface is formed, and the natural resources we use! Geoscience also looks at how water and ecosystems are connected.

On this page, you will learn how to become a Junior Geoscientist through interesting stories, videos, activities, and more. Get ready to explore and discover ways the National Park Service relies on geoscientists to protect our National Parks!

 

GIP Intern Sierra Heimel, Jewell Cave National Monument, 2019. Sierra Heimel near the entrance to Jewel Cave National Monument.

NPS Photo / Jewel Cave National Monument

What do geoscientists actually do?
There are lots of different types of geoscientists! Some examples include:

• Geologist
• Meteorologist
• Paleontologist
• Seismologist
• Volcanologist
• Hydrologist
• Oceanographer

Geoscientists can work with soils, minerals, fossils, energy resources, water systems, the atmosphere, weather, and so much more. They can even study rocks on our moon and other planets in our solar system.

Visit the NPS Geoscientists-in-Parks Photo Gallery to see budding scientists in action!

 

Let's think about it...

• Search the phrase famous geoscientists online or using the resources available to you
• What names are you surprised to see?
• How did these scientists help build what we know about our Earth?

 

Step #1 Download the Junior Geoscientist Activity Log

• Geoscientists record their research and adventures to document their work! You will use an activity log to capture your learning and discoveries.
• Click the travel journal to the left or the following link to download your Junior Geoscientist Activity Log.
• You can print the word document or view on your computer. Make sure to always have it handy for each of the activities. Good luck on your challenge!

 

 

Activity 1: Types of Rocks

View cool pictures with vivid colors and textures, learn about how rocks are formed, embrace your inner artist while you practice your identification skills.
_{Click the number one to start Activity 1}

 

Activity 2: Geologic Wonders

This activity helps you explore some of the premier geologic sites in the National Parks. Come and explore the world's most magnificent rock collection—your National Parks!
^{Click the number two to start Activity 2}

 

Activity 3: Ancient Rocks

View some of the oldest rocks in your National Parks. Scientists study these ancient rocks to better understand the Earth's geological history. Learn where to find them and more!
_{Click the number three to start Activity 3}

 

Activity 4: Power of Water

_{Learn about water erosion, the power of the Potomac River, and answer the question, "What happened at Widewater?" Flex your thinking skills with this challenge!}

^{Click the number four to start Activity 4}

 

Activity 5: Geodiversity

Find out the specific types of rocks in your region with this activity with National Park Service resources. Learn about your regional geology then explore your local outdoors to try to identify them!
_{Click the number five to start Activity 5}

 

Activity 6: C&O Canal Geological History

Did you know the Park has a geologic past that preserves evidence of life on Earth from millions of years ago? Learn about the power of the Potomac River that shaped the valley where the C&O Canal now lies!

^{Click the number six to start Activity 6}

 

Congratulations!

You completed the C&O Canal Junior Geoscientist activity program.

Click here to claim your certificate of completion

 

 

Additional Links

• USGS (United States Geological Survey) resources | Geology and Ecology of National Parks
• Geoscientists-in-Parks (GIP) | Internship Opportunities

• American Geosciences Institute | Educational Resources

• U.S. Geological Survey | Science Explorer