Our Winter 2011 issueof The Earth Scientist (TES) includes 6 articles dealing with various aspects of Earth Science. These include an article recapping the 2011 MESTA/NESTA Summer Field Conference in Hawaii. Then there’s an article asking the question, “Is there such a thing as geological patience?” An article is included describing how rocks and fossils can be used to stimulate student curiosity. We’ve included an exceptional article, summarizing the results of our 2011 NESTA survey “What’s Happening in Earth & Space Science Education, Today?” There’s an article showing how you can effectively use Science Notebooks while working with your classes on a student activity dealing with issues surrounding Waste Management. The issue also includes an article describing a secure method by which your students can easily have conversations, on-line, with real scientists, in a way that stimulates the students’ thinking and questioning techniques. Finally, as this is the final TES issue of the year, I have included for your use, an Index of all the articles for 2011.
The print version of this TES issue includes two posters for your use. The Sun Earth Day Poster is graciously provided by NASA. The Pacific Ocean Poster was provided by the people at Coast and Ocean in California. A key to the map is included on page 35 of this issue.
We are proud to present these quality articles (and posters) which we hope will provide substantial background information for you, and/or allow immediate application in your classroom.