In recent years, there has been a growing interest in geology and rockhounding among people of all ages. Whether it's the thrill of finding a mineral, rock, or the satisfaction of identifying a fossil specimen, there's something about rockhounding that captures the imagination.
Nowhere is this more apparent than in a new rockhounding class for children, the Pebble Pups, which has been a smashing success. The class, which is taught by passionate and knowledgeable instructors, has attracted a wide range of students, from 5 years old to 16 years old, who are eager to learn about the fascinating world of geology. Two groups comprise this program. Elementary students are Pebble Pups. Middle school students and high school students participate as Earth Science Scholars. The older students work on research projects and help work with the younger students.
The first class met March 15, 2023. There were 5 Pebble Pups, 2 teenage Earth Science Scholars, 3 parents, 3 pup teachers, and 3 adult visitors. The Pebble Pup classes cover a range of topics, from basic geology and mineral identification to more advanced concepts like plate tectonics and geological time. Through a combination of lectures, hands-on activities, and field trips, students are able to deepen their understanding of the subject and develop a love for rockhounding that will stay with them for years to come.
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| Melanie Ackerman and Steven Veatch begin the first Pebble Pup lesson. Pebble Pups meet from 5: 30 to 6:10 pm, the same night the club meets at the VFW. Photo by Shelly Veatch. |
One of the reasons the class has been so successful is the enthusiasm and dedication of the instructors. With years of experience in the field, they are able to share their knowledge and passion for the subject with their students, making the class engaging and informative. The instructors are Steve Veatch, Melanie Ackerman, and Michelle Peters. Nathan Peters, who participates as an Earth Science Scholar, is the program assistant.
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| Melanie Ackerman is teaching the group how to write a short poem a bout a rock, or mineral, or even a fossil. This mixes writing with science to produce something artful, a poem. April is National Poetry Month and the pups will participate. Photo by Shelly Veatch. |
Another factor contributing to the success of the class is the way it is structured. By combining traditional classroom learning with hands-on activities and field trips, students are able to experience the subject in a variety of ways and develop a deeper understanding of the material.
But perhaps the most significant factor in the success of the class is the students themselves. With their natural curiosity and willingness to learn, they have embraced the subject and are eager to explore the world of geology and rockhounding.
For these students, the class is more than just an opportunity to learn about rocks. It's a chance to connect with the natural world, to discover the beauty and complexity of the earth, and to develop a sense of wonder and appreciation for the world around them.
As the success of this new rockhounding class demonstrates, there is a growing interest in geology and rockhounding among young people. By providing them with the tools and knowledge to explore this fascinating subject, we are helping to cultivate the next generation of rockhounds, and that's something for the Grand Traverse Area Rock and Mineral Club to be proud of.
