What are Those Mysterious Ruins off I-90 West of Oacoma?
The vestiges of what was a sizable manganese mining operation. According to a local, the open-ended concrete structure was a mine shaft, and the brick building housed an auger.
Educational Resources - Mining Booms and Busts
Episode Guide
Things To Do
1. Watch Mining Booms and Busts.
2. Complete Episode Quiz individually or as a group. (Note: The quiz has additional information and related video.)
3. Student Glossary (PDF)
- Print Crossword Puzzle, (answers) and distribute to class.
4. Discussion Cards (PDF)
5. Class Activity - Land Subsidence: Poor Mining Practices
The Lead Subsidence Video
Related - Cave-In Raises Alarm About Abandoned Mines and Sinkholes Lurking in Black Hills
Episode Script
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On this page you will find educational resources for the Dakota Pathways episode called Mining Booms and Busts. There is an episode guide, additional videos, activities, and more.
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Activity: Density Bowling
During this hands-on activity your students will use household items to investigate density. They will also learn about the Lead Opera House and Recreation Center opened in 1914.
Activity: Compound vs. Mixture
During this activity your students will learn about compounds and mixtures. They will also learn how cyanide solution was used to chemically remove gold and silver from ore.
Activity: Chemical Reaction (surface area)
The students will learn about a tragic 1930 fire at the Ellison Shaft, Homestake. They will also use household items to investigate reaction rates of a chemical reaction.
