Format
1) Introduction
2) Rocks vs. Minerals
3) Observe mineral specimens and record observations
4) Types of Rocks (Sedimentary, Igneous, Metamorphic)
5) Observe rock specimens and record observations
6) The Rock Cycle
7) Plate Tectonics
8) Rocks and minerals as a natural Resource
9) Q&A
Objectives
-Understand how minerals are the building blocks of rock formations
-Identify the basic characteristics of sedimentary, metamorphic and igneous rock
-Learn what the rock cycle is and how it relates to the creation of rocks
-Discuss plate tectonics and review their role within the rock cycle and in the creation of new landforms
-Review rocks as a natural resource and the environmental challenges and solutions associated with mining
Standards Alignment
National Standards
Next Generation Science Standards
4-ESS1-1 Identify evidence from patterns in rock formations and fossils in rock layers to support an explanation for changes in a landscape over time.
5-ESS2-1 Develop a model using an example to describe ways the geosphere, biosphere, hydrosphere, and/or atmosphere interact.
5-ESS3-1 Obtain and combine information about ways individual communities use science ideas to protect the Earth’s resources and environment.
MS-ESS2-2 Construct an explanation based on evidence for how geoscience processes have changed Earth’s surface at varying time and spatial scales.
MS-ESS2-1 Develop a model to describe the cycling of Earth’s materials and the flow of energy that drives this process.
State Standards
Michigan
Social Studies: Geography
6 – G2.1.1 Locate and describe the basic patterns of landforms.
6 – G2.1.2 Locate and describe the basic pattern and processes of plate tectonics.