Set up a hardness chart, grow crystals, and discover which rocks conduct electricity best. Students investigate concepts of time, geologic scale, and the history of rocks. How We Use Rocks and Minerals Students identify common rocks and minerals they use every day. Time - A Frame of Reference Students look at different analogies in order to grasp the age of the Earth. The Structure of the Earth Students compare an apple and egg to the structure of the Earth.
Students play a guessing game to discover the identity of a mystery student.
Mineral Colors and Lusters Students describe the color and luster of a variety of rock samples. Mineral Hardness Students determine the approximate hardness of a rock by scratching it with a variety of objects. The Streak Test Students predict and then test the color of the mineral streaks. The Vinegar Test Students use vinegar to detect the presence of calcium carbonate in the rock samples. Acid Rain Students test the effects of acid rain on a chalk sample.