Classroom News | Mrs. DuBose's Class: AdVeNtUrEs iN ScIeNcE

Block 1: Rusty, Michaela, Cole, and Sarah
Block 2: Stephen, Gabriel, and Doquan
Block 3: Aaliyah, Caylee, Luke, and Jeremy
Block 4: Nathaniel, Emma, Mark, and Coatie

THIS WEEK’S ADVENTURES:
This week are learning how Earth’s surface changes due to the dynamic duo: Weathering and Erosion. Weathering is the breakdown of rocks due to mechanical/physical weathering or chemical weathering. Mechanical weathering is rock breaking down but keeping its chemical composition. This can occur through plant growth, abrasion, ice wedging, animal action, and release of pressure. Chemical weathering can occur when rocks are broken down but under go a chemical composition change. This can occur through water, acid rain, oxidation (rusting), living organism, or carbon dioxide. After weathering breaks down the rock, erosion swoops in to carry sediments off through wind, water, or ice. Students will use their knowledge of mechanical and chemical weathering and simulate these processes on our sugar cubes (fake rocks). Students will later in the week use various objects to try conserve their soil. This activity will help them understand the importance of protecting the soil from erosion. Check out the dynamic duo below: Weathering an Erosion video and the dire consequences that can happen when we don’t protect the soil–Dust Bowl.