Joggins fossil cliffs.

Grade 4 - Geology of Nova Scotia

Program Highlights

This earth science program has students investigate the physical properties that make minerals unique, as well as the massive scale of change that occurs on Earth. Based on specific curriculum outcomes, this program gives students a hands-on activity, along with high-tech imagery, to encourage them look at geology from both a local and global perspective. 

Students will learn to differentiate between rocks and minerals, participate in hands-on mineral testing and have the opportunity to be introduced to Science on a Sphere. Science on a Sphere gives a perspective of the Earth as it might be seen from 45,000 km away! Live and archived scientific data display earthquakes, volcanoes, tsunamis and more. This technology is an awe-inspiring global projection system and the first of its kind in Canada.

Curriculum Outcome Links

Science 4: Rocks, Minerals and Erosion

Outcome 7: Students will explore the characteristics of rocks, minerals, and fossils.

  • Classify and compare rocks and minerals according to characteristics.

Outcome 8: Students will explore how the Earth’s surface changes over time.

  • Investigate examples of erosion.
  • Explore the connections among the rock cycle, soil, and weather.    

Program Length

80 min

Program Capacity

  • 2 classes (60 students maximum)
  • 1 chaperone for every 5 students

Cost

The charge for this program is $3.50 per student which includes the tax. The teachers are admitted free of charge. One chaperone is admitted free for every five students (1:5 ratio).

Activities

10 minutes: Introduction

The program begins with a group introductory discussion and activity reviewing the difference between rocks and minerals. Facilitated through a consideration of the ingredients used in baking, the students will connect how rocks are made up of several mineral constituents. The class will be divided into two groups and take part in both of the following activities.

30 minutes: Changing Landscapes

Half of the group will be introduced to the Earth’s surface and major natural phenomena that affect its landscapes using the cutting-edge technology of “Science on a Sphere”. During the presentation, students will be encouraged to think critically about how landscapes can change and share their ideas and experiences. The show will focus on both local events, like snow, ice and hurricanes, as well as global events, such as earthquakes, tsunamis and volcanoes.

30 minutes: Mineral Testing

In small groups, students will rotate through a series of mineral testing experiments, using Nova Scotian geological specimens. Through hands-on investigation and observation, students will record the properties of several minerals, which are commonly used for identification by geologists. 

10 minutes: Conclusion

In their respective groups, students will discuss and summarize the material covered over the course of their activities.

Information and Reservations

To book this program on a Tuesday morning in April or May 2026, please email [email protected].

Grade 4 - Pre / Post Visit Activities

Pre Visit Activities

Exploring Changing Landscapes

Our world is constantly changing. Every part of the Earth is a little bit different than it was yesterday. In this pre visit activity, students will explore how landscapes change from a global perspective.

Post Visit Activities

Mineral Bingo

Minerals are a very important natural resource. Though they may not realize it, students use minerals every day. Light bulbs, toothpaste, and even television wouldn’t be possible without these materials. Mineral Bingo can be completed in class, as a homework assignment or as a computer lab activity.

Mineral Machine

If your students could create any machine, what would it be? In this post-visit activity, students explore the various uses of minerals as they create and draw their very own "mineral machine".

Changing Landscapes Research Poster

What causes tsunamis? How are islands formed? This research-based post-activity gives students the opportunity to learn how natural phenomena physically alter Earth's landscapes. A list of possible events is provided, although students are encouraged to choose their own. This research activity is an excellent complement to the "Exploring Changing Landscapes" pre- visit activity.

Geology of Nova Scotia

Here are some terms we hope you will introduce to your class before taking part in the grade four program. Understanding the meaning of these words will help the students prepare for and enjoy their visit to the Museum of Natural History.

Continents:    The seven major landmasses on Earth. They include North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia, and Antarctica.

Earthquake: Vibrations on the Earth’s surface caused by the underground movement of tectonic plates.

Equator:     An imaginary line around the middle of the earth that divides the planet into the Northern Hemisphere and the Southern Hemisphere.

Geology:     The study of the Earth and its rocks and minerals.

Glacier:      A huge mass of ice that moves slowly over time.

Hemisphere: Half of the earth, such as the Northern Hemisphere or the Southern Hemisphere.

Hurricane:   A large tropical storm that brings with it strong winds and heavy rain.

Landscape:  An area of land that has certain characteristics. Examples of landscapes include mountains, forests, beaches, and cities.

Minerals:    Naturally occurring, solid substances made of crystals. Minerals are the ingredients, or building blocks, of rocks.

Property:    A characteristic of something, such as its size, weight, colour, or hardness.

Rock:        A naturally occurring solid that is made up of minerals.

Tectonic Plates: Large pieces of rock that make up the surface of the earth. They constantly move around the planet very, very slowly. Sometimes, when these plates shift against each other, it can cause earthquakes.

Tsunami:     A big ocean wave usually caused by an earthquake or a volcanic explosion.

Volcano:     An opening in the surface of the Earth that sometimes erupts, letting gas, ash, and magma escape.