Inquiries in Science® Environmental Science Series - Help your students understand hard-to-grasp science concepts. Using a learning cycle of Engage, Explore, Explain, Extend, and Evaluate, each kit features lab activities designed to actively engage students in learning essential science concepts through guided inquiry. Topics addressed by the kits were organized and selected based on data from numerous sources, including the National Research Council's National Science Education Standards, AAAS's Project 2061 Science Benchmarks, NAEP's Science Framework, and state science education standards from across the US.

The Mining for Minerals Kit includes: Lab supplies plus a teacher’s manual with instructions Background information Reproducible student sheets Common student misconceptions Student questions Extension activities Suggestions for differentiated instruction Suggestions for community action Kit Refill replenishes kit consumables.

• Perform simulated mining activities using wax cast landscapes
• Analyze costs of mining practices versus environmental impacts
• Includes unique topographic mold

Grades 9–12.  Students use topographic maps and wax casts of landscapes to explore for mineral deposits using sediment readings and core samples. Once the deposits are found, students determine the most economic and environmentally sound ways to extract the ore. They then analyze the environmental impact and cost of their mining expedition to determine if a more economical and environmentally friendly way exists to mine for these resources.

Part of the Inquiries in Science™ series. Materials are sufficient for 30 students working in groups.