Introduction

Geomorphology is the branch of Geography that focuses on the study of landforms and the processes that shape them, being divided into two main segments: endogenous and exogenous agents. Endogenous agents, also known as internal forces, are those that arise from within the Earth, resulting in effects such as plate tectonics and volcanism. On the other hand, exogenous agents, or external forces, are the shaping processes that occur on the Earth's surface, such as the action of water, wind, and processes of erosion, transportation, and deposition.

To understand our Earth, we need to encompass this knowledge about endogenous and exogenous agents, study their influence on the formation and alteration of our relief, and how they interact to create the landscapes we see around us. Fundamentally, Geomorphology is a discipline that lies at the heart of physical Geography and Earth Science.

Understanding these elements, as well as their dynamic interaction, allows us to understand how terrestrial environments were formed and how they will continue to change over time. Furthermore, it enables a better understanding of phenomena such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and other natural disasters, which can contribute to the prevention of these events.

Contextualization

In the modern world, the understanding of Geomorphology has vital practical applications, ranging from urban and rural planning, management of natural disasters, to the exploration of natural resources. The study of endogenous and exogenous agents plays a crucial role in a wide range of environmental and social issues, such as the availability of freshwater, the impacts of climate change, the preservation of biodiversity, among others.

Learning to interpret and analyze the landscape is a valuable skill, as it allows us to understand the space in which we live. The study of endogenous and exogenous agents provides us with a lens through which we can see the history and future of our planet.

Activity

Activity Title: "Sculpting Agents: A Study on the Forces of Nature"

Project Objective:

To study and understand the endogenous and exogenous agents that act in shaping the relief.

Detailed Project Description:

In this project, students will be divided into groups of 3 to 5 people and will have to create a three-dimensional landscape model that demonstrates the impact of endogenous and exogenous agents on its formation and modification. The model will be accompanied by a written report explaining the theory behind the model, the processes used in its construction, and the conclusions drawn from the project.

Required Materials:

• Clay or Modeling Clay
• Gouache paint
• Brushes
• Cardboard
• Water
• Recording material (Cell phone or camera)

Detailed Project Steps:

Part 1: Research and Planning

1. Study and Research: Students must conduct an in-depth study on endogenous and exogenous agents, using the recommended resources or others they find relevant.

2. Model Planning: After the research, students must plan the creation of their landscape model, deciding which features to include to represent the different geological agents.

Part 2: Model Creation

1. Model Construction: Using modeling clay or clay, students must build a 3D model of the relief, representing mountains, valleys, bodies of water, etc.

2. Model Painting: When the model is dry, students must paint it using gouache paints to give it realism.

Part 3: Documentation and Presentation

1. Recording: Students must document the entire process of creating the model with photos or videos. This will help in the preparation of the final report.

2. Report: Students must write a report, as guided above, explaining the entire process. The report should include the introduction (contextualization of the theme and project objective), development (theory of the agents and detailed explanation of the model construction), conclusion (learnings and conclusions drawn), and bibliography.

3. Presentation: Each group must present their model and report to the class, explaining the meaning of each element present in the model and how it represents the action of endogenous and exogenous agents.

Each stage of the project is designed to take about 5 to 10 hours, totaling one month for execution.

Project Deliverables:

• 3D relief model
• Photographic or video documentation of the creation process
• Detailed report
• Presentation of the model and report to the class

This project aims not only to assess students' understanding of endogenous and exogenous agents but also to promote collaboration, creativity, communication, and time management. The report will be an opportunity for students to demonstrate their understanding of the topic in a clear and organized manner, allowing them to connect the theoretical part with the practical work done.