Distance Learning
- Grade Level:
- Middle School: Sixth Grade through Eighth Grade
- Subject:
- Science
Glacier Bay National Park has a dynamic glacial history. The area and its people have experienced and observed the tidewater glacier cycle of advance and retreat. Today, Glacier Bay continues to be a place of research where scientists conduct studies to understand how glaciers function and the direction of their future. In this interactive lesson, a park ranger will guide students through the formation of these glaciers, glacial features, and their effects on the landscape. There will be time for questions towards the end of the program.
Objectives
By the end of the lesson, students will be able to:
- Define a glacier and describe how they form
- Identify 4 geologic signs of glacial activity
- Describe the tidewater glacier cycle
- Explain the importance of glaciers to wildlife and human populations
Standards Alignment
National Standards
National Standards Addressed
NS. 5-8.1 Science as Inquiry
NS. 5-8.4 Earth Science and Space Science
NS. 5-8.6 Personal and Social Perspectives
NS. 5-8.7 History and Nature of Science
State Standards
Next Generation Science Standards
MS. History of Earth: MS-ESS2-2
MS. Earth's Systems: MS-ESS2-4
MS. Ecosystems: Interactions, Energy, and Dynamics: MS-LS2-4
How to Participate
Scheduling and Registration:
The Glacier Bay Education Team offers programs in January and February each year. Rangers start taking requests on December 1st and will process requests in the order in which they are received.
There are two ways to register:
- Sign up for a class directly through our distance learning registration form.
- Or, register via the Center for Interactive Learning and Collaboration website.
Questions? Email us or call (907) 697-2573.
Last updated: February 18, 2026