Air temperature, moisture, wind speed and direction, and precipitation make up the weather in a particular place and time. Build and use weather instruments such as a rain gauge or wind gauge. The emphasis should be on collecting weather data and local observable weather phenomena. Student built instruments may not produce accurate date, but should provide comparable results. Rocks are made of minerals.
Minerals have different physical properties, such as hardness, color, and texture.
Use properties such as hardness, streak, and color to sort minerals. Conduct experiments with minerals that demonstrate their properties. Use keys to relate minerals and their properties. Many simple kits are available to aid students with these observations. Students should use observed properties to sort minerals in logical ways.