1. Rocks & The Rock cycle

2. Standards Addressed 8Sa.3:
Construct explanations and conclusions from interpretations of data obtained during a controlled scientific investigation.
8Sa.6:
Use appropriate tools and instruments (including convex lenses, plane mirrors, color filters, prisms, and slinky springs) safely and accurately when conducting a controlled scientific investigation.
8Sa.7:
Use appropriate safety procedures when conducting investigations.
8Sc.4:
Explain how igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks are interrelated in the rock cycle.

3. Rock Identification Rocks are classified as Igneous Metamorphic
Sedimentary

4. The Rock Cycle

5. Rocks and the Rock Cycle
ROCKS come in cool colors, shapes, textures, and sizes and are found all around you, but how much do you REALLY know about them?
Click on the following link to learn about rocks and the rock cycle. Complete the quiz.
ROCKS and the ROCK CYCLE

6. Igneous
Basalt
Igneous rocks are formed when magma (molten rock deep within the earth) cools and hardens. Sometimes the magma cools inside the earth, and other times it erupts onto the surface from volcanoes (in this case, it is called lava). When lava cools very quickly, no crystals form and the rock looks shiny and glasslike. Sometimes gas bubbles are trapped in the rock during the cooling process, leaving tiny holes and spaces in the rock. Examples of this rock type include basalt and obsidian.

7. Metamorphic
Gneiss
Metamorphic rocks are formed under the surface of the earth from the metamorphosis (change) that occurs due to intense heat and pressure (squeezing). The rocks that result from these processes often have ribbon-like layers and may have shiny crystals, formed by minerals growing slowly over time, on their surface. Examples of this rock type include gneiss and marble.

8. Sedimentary
Conglomerate
Sedimentary rocks are formed from particles of sand, shells, pebbles, and other fragments of material. Together, all these particles are called sediment. Gradually, the sediment accumulates in layers and over a long period of time hardens into rock. Generally, sedimentary rock is fairly soft and may break apart or crumble easily. You can often see sand, pebbles, or stones in the rock, and it is usually the only type that contains fossils. Examples of this rock type include conglomerate and limestone.

9. Geodes
What is a geode?
A geode is a hollow, rounded rock. The hollow is usually filled with crystals, like quartz or agate. A geode begins as a bubble in volcanic rock or a hollow in sedimentary rock. Eventually, the outer shell hardens. Minerals begin to precipitate and over thousands of years, many layers of crystals form inside the geode. For more, read Geodes, an article by Lynn M. Bremner of Desert USA.

10. Minerals
What is a mineral? A mineral is an inorganic naturally-occuring crystalline solid. It has specific physical properties and a definite chemical composition. Please read How to Identify Minerals for a description of some of the basic physical properties of minerals.

11. Crystals & Gemstones
What is a crystal? A crystal is a geometric solid that forms in a definite, repeating pattern. The external shape of the crystal is smooth and symmetrically arranged, reflecting the internal arrangement of its atoms.
What is a gemstone? A gemstone is any rock, mineral, or other substance used for adornment. A gemstone has three qualities that separate it from other materials: rarity, beauty, and durability. Rarity and beauty increase its value. Durability, or hardness, ensures the gemstone will last through time. Some minerals, such as diamond, garnet, and beryl are gemstones.

12. Rock Identification Key
Use the rock identification key provided to determine if the rock is igneous, metamorphic, or sedimentary.
Rock Identification Key

13. How to Identify Minerals
Rock & Mineral Tests
Making careful observation of rocks and minerals is an important way to understand the nature of the earth’s crust.