Continuing their studies of the earth's surface, St. Joseph School fifth graders finished their section on rocks and minerals with a visit by geologist, Steve Padovani on Friday, October 15th. Together they analyzed the physical properties of rocks and identified various minerals. Like teachers, Padovani prepared a lesson plan, developing it over a two week period. "This subject matter can get complicated. The challenge is to keep it to an intro level," he said. But it is his passion and enthusiasm that brings such excitement. "He created a classroom full of mineralogists who analyzed the physical properties and identified the various minerals," said St. Joseph fifth grade teacher, Deborah Stillo.
Padovani's background includes a Bachelors of Science in Geology with a Masters in Public and Environmental Health. He has worked as a geologist for the U.S.Geological Survey and has worked with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. He now oversees cleanups of many environmental sites in the Midwest. As a child Padovani respected the work of Jacques Cousteau, the world's most famous oceanographer. It was Cousteau's work that helped direct his career. "It's very important at this age to have exposure to many different things, to good experiences and to many aspects of life," added Padovani.
Padovani has presented at St. Joseph in the past. New to this year's program was a 3-D cleavage break. He challenged students to discover the crystal structure of the minerals using hammers to find the mineral's cleavage. Students saw firsthand what they learned previously through their books.
Padovani then turned student's attention to the Stone Age, introducing students to the many locations of the world where cave art has been found. He discussed natural mineral pigments used, then presented those same minerals with flagstone allowing students to experience their own cave art.
"Mr. Padovani's knowledge and pure energy are incredible. He creates an excitement for this subject matter just as Cousteau did for the ocean," said Stillo adding, "We are so lucky to have him."
