Scientists Solve ‘Darwin’s Paradox’

SCIENCE A phenomenon explaining why fertile coral reefs form in the oceanic abyss has finally been proved correct. (Geographical) Use our resources to better understand these oases in the ocean. Teachers, scroll down for a quick list of key resources in our Teachers’ Toolkit. Discussion Ideas The Geographical article suggests that long-held assumptions are correct and oceanographers have solved “Darwin’s Paradox.” What is Darwin’s Paradox? … Continue reading Scientists Solve ‘Darwin’s Paradox’

Deadly Mudslide in Washington

ENVIRONMENT Landslides are part of the geologic heritage of the Pacific Northwest, where a deadly mudslide claimed eight lives. But it’s almost impossible to tell when a slope is primed to fail. (Seattle Times) Use our resources to learn more about landslides. Discussion Ideas Read through our short encyclopedic entry on landslides. It lists three major causes of landslides: geology, morphology, and human activity. What … Continue reading Deadly Mudslide in Washington

Shocking News

SCIENCE A bolt from the blue has many powers. But until now, no one suspected that lightning can be a major sculptor of mountains. (National Geographic News) Use our resources to better understand weathering, the process that shapes mountains through lightning and more familiar forces. Discussion Ideas Read through the short Nat Geo News article. How did the scientists identify lightning-shaped areas in the Drakensberg … Continue reading Shocking News