Geology Centers
/Last week during our content block our young geologists rotated to different learning centers. Through their work at these centers they gained experience sorting rocks based on various characteristics, identifying specific types of rocks using a field guide, working with clay and kinetic sand materials, examining different sedimentary rocks with a microscope, and creating their own sedimentary "rocks" as we discussed the process of rock formation in nature. During our class meetings, we’ve been examining sedimentary, igneous, and metamorphic rocks. Students are in the process of creating rock posters that describe how each of the three types of rocks are formed. Last week we also used crayon shavings (sediments) to depict the rock cycle. The shavings were compacted to form sedimentary rocks, then melted into magma (melted rock), and cooled and hardened to form igneous rocks. On Tuesday we got to peek at our rocks in the rock tumbler before we added the third type of grit and more water to the tumbler. Many students were surprised to find the rocks much smoother, with rounded edges instead of jagged points. After tumbling for another seven days we will remove the sand and water and add polish to the rocks in the tumbler for the final step of the process. This week students will have a chance to share their rock posters with the class.
