Using coloring maps to teach introductory Geology
Geologic maps are a fundamental aspect of the Earth Sciences: there is no better way to illustrate the distribution of different types of rocks and their ages.
However, published geologic maps are often too complex and inaccessible to introductory students. To address issue, I have created a series of geologic maps and guidelines designed to illustrate some of the most fundamental aspects of geology. Students color these maps as a way to better understand the four dimensions of geology (surface area, depth, and time). These maps are designed to be printed in black and white at 11x17 inches. Coloring the maps provides students with a tangible approach to learning about geology and introducing them to the complexities and benefits of geologic maps.
Connecting time and space with geologic maps
A series of simplified geologic maps are shown below with their accompanying timelines that are printed on the back of the maps. To make the maps, I use published geologic maps as a base in Adobe Illustrator, and then trace over the distribution of rocks. An important part of the process is to combine rocks of similar type and age in order to simplify the maps. As you scroll through the maps, notice how the scale of the maps change. Students can begin with the Geologic Map of the World and then work their way to smaller regions.
Geologic Map of North America with Phanerozoic Timeline
This map is useful in demonstrating:
- The different ages of rocks of North America
- The basic distribution of the four main categories of rocks
- The locations of the most important fossils in the evolution of life
- The relationship between plate boundaries and rock types
Geologic Map of the Pacific Northwest with abbreviated Phanerozoic Timeline
This map is useful in demonstrating:
- The distribution of rock types and ages in the PNW
- The relationship between subduction boundaries and volcanic arcs
- The inferred pathway of the Yellowstone Hot Spot across the region
- The relationships among rock types, ages, and topography
Geologic Map of the Lower Columbia with abbreviated Cenozoic Timeline
This map is useful in demonstrating:
- The distribution of rock types and ages in our local region
- The relationship between rock type and the past local environment
- The types of rocks students see while traveling to nearby towns
- The relationships among rock types, ages, and topography
Geologic Map of the World with All Earth Timeline
This map is useful in demonstrating:
- The basic distribution of rocks from each eon of Earth History
- The locations of the most important fossils in the evolution of life
- The vast difference in ages of the continental and oceanic crust
- Seafloor spreading and subduction of old oceanic crust
Geologic Map of individual cities
This map is useful in demonstrating:
- The distribution of rock types and ages in our local region
- The regions that will shake the most during an earthquake
- Students use Google Maps to determine which parts of the city have the highest shaking potential.
- Students identify the local industrial and residential zones that will be most affected during a major earthquake (spoiler alert: its not pretty!)
