Rock Observation and Classification TE
Objectives: Students observe properties of sedimentary, igneous, and metamorphic rocks.
Students classify rocks based on their properties as sedimentary, igneous, and
metamorphic rocks.
Materials:
Two Igneous Rocks (obsidian and pumice or scoria*)
Two Sedimentary Rocks (conglomerate and compact limestone or chalk*)
Two Metamorphic Rocks (slate and marble*)
*Suggested rock types
Procedures for Exploration:
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Divide class into small groups of six students.
Pass out samples of rocks that include rocks from the 3 types.
Students choose a rock to observe, and identify its properties in their journals.
Students can place the rocks in a group and have members read their descriptions
and see who can identify the designated rock.
Students use the dichotomous key classification sheets to classify their groups rocks
into the three types of rocks: sedimentary, igneous, and metamorphic.
Students explain their classifying reasoning.
Evaluation: Students complete Earth Science Review III worksheet.
**AIMS gr. 4 Earth Science has several lessons on identifying rocks.