Minerals and Gems: Maine 4-H STEM Toolkit of the Month

Each month we will be highlighting a different 4-H STEM Toolkit available from UMaine Cooperative Extension 4-H Program!

Maine has a rich history of mineral mining, especially in the western part of the state. Currently sand and gravel are the principal resources being mined, but granite and slate are also extracted. In certain parts of the state limestone and gemstones are mined successfully. The Minerals and Gems 4-H Science Toolkit was developed to introduce youth to these geologic resources. The toolkit contains eleven experiential learning activities and includes samples of minerals and gems found in Maine. Youth will explore those minerals and gems using standard identification methods and tools (such as hardness and streak). Youth will explore the structure of those minerals, and will learn where in Maine minerals are found – and why! This Maine 4-H Toolkit was created with the generous support of the Maine Mineral and Gem Museum.

Learn more about this, and other 4-H STEM Toolkits online, where you can see what is available for different age groups or topic areas.