Earth Science: Unearth the Best Web Sites

Windows to the Universe is a playful and superbly designed look at our universe. Adjust any educational page on this site for different levels by clicking the “Beginner,” “Intermediate,” or “Advanced” buttons at the top of the page; there’s a convenient “Spanish/English” language toggle button up there as well. Take a look at the “Our Planet” section to access the Earth science area, or scroll down for more fun features, including a “Science History Calendar.” Teachers should make sure to visit the useful “Teacher Resources” section.

NASA’s Earth Science Enterprise “For Kids Only” page has various interactive activities and educational resources for children. However, the content isn’t especially tailored to beginning reading levels, so it might help if a parent or teacher guides younger students through the appropriate information and activities. Visit the “People” section for information on careers and educational/extracurricular programs in Earth science.

The GLOBE Program (Global Learning and Observations to Benefit the Environment) unites students, teachers, and scientists on collaborative learning projects. To join the vast number of amateur scientists around the world contributing to our understanding of the Earth, start by exploring the pages For Students or take a look at past Projects. You’ll find help with data collection and organization, classroom projects, and more.

The Digital Library for Earth System Education is a large database of educational resources and data sets for Earth science. It boasts a powerful search tool to help educators find the right resource according to keyword, grade level, standards, resource type, and source. Funded by the National Science Foundation, this database can be trusted for quality content.

Discovery Education’s topical lesson plans are well documented and of exceptional professional quality. Look for plans organized by grade level; each one includes procedures, materials, a vocabulary list with audio, a suggested reading list, and lists professional/academic/government standards that it meets. All of the plans come in easy-to-print versions, too.

The National Ocean Service , a program of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, is a robust resource for Earth science educators. Its educational materials are divided into “Kits,” “Stories,” and “Classroom” categories. For comprehensive treatments of large oceanographic topics, Kits include tutorials, lesson plans, and guides to other online resources. Stories are informative and rich with anecdotes drawn from case studies. The Classroom section is full of lesson plans that focus on inquiry-based, hands-on activities.

The American Geological Institute (AGI) has a number of resources and teaching materials available for Earth science educators. The lessons and activities are well organized with goals clearly explained. Visit AGI’s EarthComm site for online geology curriculums tailored to whatever state you choose, giving you area-specific activities and information for the classroom.

National Earth Science Teachers Association publishes a quarterly journal available online to all members; membership starts at $20 for one year. This nonprofit teachers’ organization aims to advance Earth science education and provides a strong community for teachers nationwide. Nonmembers won’t find a great deal of information or resources here but it is a respected and well-known organization in the field.

The National Association of Geoscience Teachers serves as a good portal to the online and professional world of geoscience for educators. You’ll find links to numerous resources on and off the site, including the Journal of Geoscience Education, and information on membership and programs.