Rock Identification Lab
Period ____
Names: ______________________________________
______________________________________
Directions: Use the identification guides to place each sample next to (not over) its name.
When you think you have them all in the right places, notify your instructor and he will mark
any that are incorrect. You have as many chances as you need to get them all correct, but the
more incorrect marks on your lab, the lower your grade. You can begin with any one of the 3
major rock types, but finish and put away one set before starting another. You are strongly
encouraged to use your class notes for this activity.
When you are finished, or while you wait for your busy instructor, work on identifying the large
samples displayed around the room. Number a sheet of notebook paper to match the number of
samples. When you turn in the lab, the paper should be stapled to the back of this lab sheet.
IGNEOUS Rocks
obsidian
basalt porphyry
pumice rhyolite
scoria diorite
granite gabbro
granite porphyry
pegmatite
basalt volcanic breccia
Sedimentary rocks
limestone
fossiliferous limestone
shale
bituminous coal
oil shale
breccia
sandstone (2 samples) conglomerate
Metamorphic Rocks
marble
quartzite
anthracite coal
mica schist
amphibole hornfels gneiss
amphibole schist
slate
phyllite