Earth & Physical Sciences

Earth and Physical Sciences

• Geology
• Oceanography
• Meteorology
• Topography
• Astronomy

Geology Hike to Point Bonita Lighthouse

The Marin Headlands is world famous among geologists as one of the premier places to observe formations of the Franciscan mélange which forms much of the California Coast. The hike to Point Bonita Lighthouse gives students a perfect opportunity to:

• Examine the sedimentary and igneous rock layers which created the Marin Headlands.
• Observe a minor fault line and a pillow basalt arch along the way to the Lighthouse.

Beach Sand Study

• Find chert, basalt, sandstone, jasper, carnelian, and more.
• Learn about the properties of various rocks as they sort sand pebbles by grain size, shape, color, and texture.
• Engage in the scientific process as they work to discover patterns of sediment deposition on the beach.
  

Edible Geology

Using different types of candy to represent different types of rock, students reenact the formation of Coastal California from underwater volcano to mountain formation during the geological process of subduction. The activity ends with a tasty snack as review.

Weather Reports

With access to several different microclimates within a short hike, the Marin Headlands is a great place to study weather.

• Students use hand held weather stations to take readings and compare the weather at the top of Hill 88, on Rodeo Beach, and in the willows by the pond.
• Each evening, students give a weather report and make a prediction about the next day's weather.
  

Trail Care Stewardship Projects

Students participate in a trail care project in order to keep the trail to the Point Bonita Lighthouse safe for visitors. Rain washes bits of gravel and dirt onto paved sections of the trail leaving them slippery. Students:

• Learn how forces of erosion challenge the National Park Service
• Help keep the path safe for all by sweeping gravel from the trail
  

Suggested Evening Programs