The Earth’s Shape Lab

Get your students thinking like scientists with The Earth’s Shape Lab—a fun, hands-on activity that clears up common misconceptions about our planet’s shape and surface. Perfect for middle and high school Earth science classes, this lab helps students see that Earth isn’t a perfect sphere—and it’s way smoother than most people think!

As they work through the lab, students will measure, compare, and analyze data to better understand what Earth really looks like. Along the way, they’ll build important skills like critical thinking and careful measurement, all while staying engaged with the topic.

Why You’ll Love This Lab:

• Easy to Use – No complicated setup required.
• Hands-On Learning – Students actively explore and investigate.
• Skill Builder – Great for practicing data analysis and precision.
• Visual Boost – Optional relief globes help make the concept stick.
• Flexible Format – Works well in groups or individually.

What’s Included?

• Student Lab Sheet – Clear directions and space for student responses.
• Teacher Answer Key – Easy grading with complete answers.

Pro Tip: If you’ve got a relief globe in your classroom, use it! Seeing and touching the exaggerated mountains and valleys helps them better understand how Earth’s features feel huge to us but barely show up at a global scale. It’s a great conversation starter!

Whether you’re kicking off a new unit or reinforcing key ideas, this lab is a great way to get students curious about what our planet really looks like.

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Thanks for visiting!
Jessica