Over the course of their travels, expedition members would have had a chance to explore a variety of terrain and see firsthand the diverse beauty of America. In early November of 1803, the expedition traveled past what is today the Shawnee National Forest in Southern Illinois. Located within that forest are some of the most interesting and awe-inspiring geologic formations in the Midwest, including Cave In Rock, Stone Face, and Garden of the Gods, which has been designated a National Scenic Treasure. If some of the men had a chance to view these formations, what questions might they have asked themselves? Would they have sought to know more and wondered, "How are such geological formations created?" Or would they have been more pragmatic and pondered, "Why would you want to study these rocks anyway? And if you did study them, what would your job be like?" These questions and those like them are the focus of this broadcast, as we explore the world of the geoscientist and the fascinating forms they study.
Contents of the Broadcast:
1. Opening to 6:47--Introduction, welcome, orientation to today's topic, interaction with student groups on their general knowledge about rocks
2. 6:47 to 16:37--We are joined by Scott Mandrell, who portrays Meriwether Lewis for the Discovery Expedition. Scott discusses the original expedition and rocks, including their use of flint. Student questions are included.
3. 16:37 to 30:01--Mary McCorvie, Forest Archaeologist for the Shawnee National Forest in Illinois, joins the broadcast. Ms. McCorvie shares pictures of the interesting rock formations in the Garden of the Gods, located in the forest, and discusses what forces created the formations. Questions from student groups are also included.
4. 30:01 to 1:06:35--John Barker, geologist at Big Bone Lick National Park site in Kentucky, joins us to talk about how rocks are created. This segment is broken down into three sections. First we learn about igneous rocks, then sedimentary, and finally metamorphic rocks. Student questions are included throughout the segment.
5. 1:06:35 to End--Summary of material covered today, closing questions, thanks and goodbye.
