Rocks & Minerals Targeted Grade Level -- 3 Developed by National Science Resource Center Distributed by Carolina Biological

Rocks & Minerals Module Overview

Students explore the differences and similarities between rocks and minerals by investigating samples of these earth materials, performing a series of tests similar to geologists' field tests, and reading about how minerals are used. The first lessons focus on rocks. The students then turn their attention to a set of 12 minerals and test them to identify properties such as streak color, luster, light transmissivity, hardness, shape, and magnetism. After completing these observations, students compile them into their own Minerals Field Guide. In a culminating activity, they are challenged to apply their knowledge and skills to identify new minerals. They then report on how rocks and minerals are used.

Descriptions of the Science and Technology for Children ^tm (STC) units © 1997 National Academy of Sciences. Reproduced with permission from the National Science Resources Center (NSRC), Washington, DC. For more information about the STC ^tm program and other NSRC programs and activities visit the NSRC web site. For information on ordering the STC ^tm curriculum visit the Carolina Biological Supply Company web site.

These module web pages were initially created by LeeAnn Baggett, Eastwood Elementary, Decatur City Schools and Sandra McDonald, Brookhill Elementary, Athens City Schools. Please address comments or questions to hasp@dcs.edu

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