Define rock. Discuss and define three classes of rocks. List the
characteristics of each class, how they are formed, and how they are named.
Define mineral. Tell how to identify minerals. Tell how
rocks and minerals differ. List five of the most common rock-forming
minerals. Tell how they are identified. Tell how hardness, specific gravity,
color, streak, cleavage, luster, and crystal form are useful in identifying
minerals.
Earth Processes
Secure a topographic map of your home locality or an area of special
interest to you. Explain the origin of the landscape, including any unusual
features. Account for any influences of the landscape on the location of
towns, parks, highways, railroads, airports, industries, or similar
structures.
Draw a diagram of the hydrologic cycle and discuss it and its effects
with your counselor.
Do ONE of the following:
- Tell about the occurrence of volcanoes on land and in the ocean.
Describe the difference between intrusive igneous rocks and extrusive
igneous rocks.
- Describe the major steps in the geologic history of a mountain
range. Describe the anticline, syncline, fault, strike, dip, and an
unconformity. Discuss the relationship between mountain building and
erosion in forming the present landscape.
- Describe the major features of an ocean floor between the
shorelines on either side.
Earth History
Make a chart showing the geological eras and periods and show in what
geologic time the rocks in your region were formed.
Do ONE of the following:
- Tell what fossils are and how they aid in understanding the story
of the earth's history.
- Make a collection of 10 different fossils and identify them to the
best of your ability.
- Discuss with your counselor the theory of continental drift.
Geology and People
Discuss two environmental problems related to geology. Tell how
land-use planning relates to geology. Tell why faulting, landslides, waste
disposal, pollution, water supply, and subsidence are important in land-use
planning. Give an example of poor use of land in your area related to
geologic features or processes.
Do ONE of the following:
- Describe five energy sources, how they occur, and how they are used
today. Describe the source of the products supplied by your local
utilities. Tell which of these products are related to geologic
processes.
- Visit a mine, oil or gas field, gravel pit, stone quarry, or
similar area of special interest to you. Make a collection of geologic
specimens found at the site visited. Tell about the geology of the
place.
Careers in Geology
Do ONE of the following:
- Read a pamphlet about careers in geology. Tell what you learned.
- Visit with a geologist, other than your counselor. Tell what he or
she does. Find out how he or she prepared for the job.
Discuss with your counselor what you have learned about careers in
geology and how to prepare for them.
BSA Advancement ID#: 58
Source: Boy Scout Requirements, #33215E, revised 2002
return
to home page
return
to merit badges