As part of their coursework, students undertook field observations of geological strata. This study delves into the observation records of outcrops in Shimogori, Oita City, detailing students’ observations and inquiries. Most students discerned evidence of past earthquakes in the area, attributed to the existence of fault lines. About half of the students also noted indications of past volcanic activity due to the presence of volcanic ash layers. Furthermore, about half of the students posed questions about geological strata and fault lines. The field observations of geological strata conducted as part of coursework introduction facilitated a deeper awareness and stimulated inquiries.

We developed a card-based teaching material to enhance student understanding of terms related to igneous rocks. This material comprises 17 cards featuring terms and illustrations associated with igneous rocks. We implemented this teaching tool in a class with first-year junior high school students. Based on the results of a post-class questionnaire survey, it was found that this teaching material effectively promotes understanding and reinforcement of igneous rock terminology among students. Additionally, providing each student with a specimen of both volcanic rock and plutonic rock during the class helped deepen their understanding through direct observation.