A nearby river later transported these sediments many miles from where they were first formed. At an even later point, when the river dried up, the sediments settled out of the water that transported them, and finally came to rest. That could be the story behind the sediment we are now examining. Have students slowly and carefully add water to the cups containing the sediments up to about 1cm of the rim. Circulate with a pitcher of water.
Students then stir the cups thoroughly each taking a turn.
Encourage the students to observe with their magnifiers the swirling of the water and sediment. The cup is then placed in the middle of the group so that it can be observed by all. Regain the attention of the class and discuss what was observed. Compare the settling in the cups to that which also forms sedimentary rocks. The layered texture is the most important property of sedimentary rocks.