As teachers and students across the country celebrate this year's Earth Science Week from October 10-16, the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources is once again offering "Pennsylvania Rock Hound" kits for a nominal fee to schools and students across the Commonwealth.

These kits include rocks and other educational materials designed specifically for the state. More than 300 kits already have been distributed to the Philadelphia School District through a partnership among DCNR, the Pennsylvania Department of Education and the Pennsylvania Aggregates and Concrete Association.

Kits are also being offered to teachers who attend workshops sponsored by the PDE and DCNR. Seventy-five teachers will participate in a seminar at DCNR's Middletown offices October 16. Teachers will learn about the kits, develop lesson plans and take a local geological study field trip. In addition, they will be given materials to assemble 30 classroom boxes for students.

Parent Teacher Associations may purchase classroom kits, which require assembly, for $30. Complete, pre-made kits also are available to the public for $19.95 by mail.

This year's Earth Science Week theme, "Living on Restless Earth," will focus on developing a new understanding of earth science and its impact on the state's economy and society. The week is part of the American Geological Institute's (AGI) yearly focus on geology and related subjects. National Earth Science Week is a national initiative.

For more information on DCNR's Bureau of Topographic and Geologic Survey, Earth Science Week or to inquire about a "Pennsylvania Rock Hound" kit, call (717) 702-2047, or visit the Pennsylvania Geological Survey webpage.

10/8/2004