Development of teaching program “formation and change of land” for classroom study of sixth-grade elementary school utilizing the star sand from Okinoerabu Island

Abstract

An education program for elementary school children in Fukushima, which uses the star sand from Okinoerabu Island, was performed. This program aimed to help children understand the nature and geological history of Okinoerabu Island through observation and experimentation: the acid dissolution of four different types of sand including the star sand from Okinoerabu Island. The children found that different sands had various colors, shapes, and solubilities when dissolving in an acid water solution. This program enhanced the children’s interests and understanding of star sand as well as the formation of Okinoerabu Island.