1. Rocks and Minerals Lesson 6
BIG IDEA:
Rocks and minerals have properties that can be: observed, tested, described, identified and recorded.

2. Background Knowledge
I called Mr. Maxwell’s geologist friend this morning and he explained how we can use the data from our 4 tests along with some new information that I am going to give you, to identify each of our 10 minerals. Using all of the data that you collected in your scientist notebook, you should be able to name and identify the properties of each of the 10 minerals today!

3. Background Knowledge
Why do you think the Geologist asked us to complete so many different observations and tests?
In most tests more than one mineral had similar reactions or characteristics. There was not enough evidence to distinguish one mineral from the other minerals. If we look at our data from all 4 tests, each mineral should display properties that will set it apart from the rest and make it unique. These properties are what a geologist can use to identify the minerals.

4. Identifying Minerals
I have made a copy of the mineral data sheet that the geologist sent for each of you to add to your scientist notebook. This is what a geologist may use as a reference to identify minerals after conducting a series of tests. It is a guide that contains the unique properties each of our minerals possess.
Using your notebooks, and your Mineral Data Sheets, I want you to try to identify all 10 minerals in Mr. Maxwell’s collection. When you are confident you have correctly identified a mineral, write the specimen number in the space provided next to each minerals name.

5. Distinguishing Properties
Data Collection
Using each groups results we will create a class identification chart to identify the 10 minerals in Mr. Maxwell’s collection.
Minerals in Mr. Maxwell’s Collection
Specimen #
Distinguishing Properties
Mineral Name 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

6. Making Meaning Conference
What do we mean when we say, “what are the properties of rocks and minerals?”
What is the difference between a rock and a mineral?
What are the natural processes involved in rock formation?
What are the different tests that we can use to identify the distinguishing properties of minerals?

7. Claims and Evidence I claim that… I know this because…
Based on what you have learned from your investigation of rocks and minerals, you need to record at least 3 claims and evidence statements in your science notebook.
I claim that… I know this because…
Possible Examples:
I claim that rocks and minerals are not the same thing. I know this because…
I claim that you can identify minerals based on their distinguishing properties. I know this because…

8. Reflection and Conclusion
What did you learn…?
What really surprised you…?
What new questions do you have…?
What would you like to know more about…?