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.
- Guided Notes (answers)
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.
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South Dakota Standards
South Dakota academic content standards serve as expectations for what students should know and be able to do by the end of each grade. The review, revision, development, and feedback process involves stakeholders throughout the state of South Dakota and is an ongoing and critical component to ensure South Dakota students in every classroom receive current and relevant learning experiences. The goal is that all students will graduate college, career, and life ready.
Content standards are set by the South Dakota Board of Education Standards. They are reviewed every five to seven years. Content standards do not mandate a specific curriculum.