The integration of the the earth sciences in effectively teaching elementary students lends itself well to meeting the National Science Education Standards. Elementary aged students bring a natural curiosity to the earth sciences. Some of the questions elementary students pose include: Why is the ocean salty? What causes waves? Where does water go after it rains? Why doesn't the ocean dry up? How do you clean up an oil spill on the ocean? These questions can be answered by using an earth systems appproach to science in the context of a hands-on, minds on lab investigation in consultation with working scientists. After the students have posed their question they work collaboratively to identify resources to answer it. This may include contacting a scientist at a local university or a scientist at an area National Atmospheric and Oceanic Administration office.The scientist and teacher form a team to effectively answer the students questions.For example, a group of third grade students wanted to know how an oil spill is cleaned up without harming the animals that inhabit the great lakes. They found out via an internet search the United States Coast Guard is involved in cleaning up oil spills. This led to the students contacting a science officer in the Coast Guard.He very graciously brought in an oil spill simulation model for the students to use in cleaning up an mini- oil spill of vegetable oil. The students were able to learn first hand how to clean up a model of an oil spill using mini booms, skimmers, and various absorbing materials.They also tried some of their own ideas such as using various non-toxic chemicals such as dishwashing detergent to disperse the spill. The students then compared and contrasted their oil spill model with real life oil spills on the surface of the ocean.This led to identifying variables affecting an oil spill such as wind direction,wind speed,the size of the oil spill, wave height,and proximity to shore. This is just one example of partnerships that can be forged with working scientists. It also bolsters the content knowledge of elementary students to avoid misconceptions.