Description
Looking for engaging activities to teach the rock cycle and minerals to your middle school students? This resource may be the answer. It is designed to provide opportunities for your students to:
 
explore the natural processes that cause rocks to form and/or transform
classify objects as minerals or not based on a 5-point criteria
have fun identifying rocks through riddles and crossword puzzles.
 
The resource can easily be used as stand-alone, part of your ongoing lessons, end-of-unit review or homework assignment.
 
***Please see the preview for sample sheets ****
 
What's included?
Rock Cycle Worksheet
Rocks Riddle and Crossword Worksheet
Mineral Cut and Paste Worksheet
Bonus Gallery Walk image cards and worksheet
Answer Keys
 
 
Rock Cycle Worksheet:
In this part, students will explain the rock cycle processes as numbered. The image of the cycle provided gives students a visual guide to assist them as they explain what process each arrow corresponds to.
 
Rocks Riddle and Crossword Worksheet:
In this part, students read 10 riddles and use the clues to identify some common rocks and complete a crossword activity with it. It's a unique and fun way for students to explore rocks. You may use it as an early finisher for your students during the lesson too.
 
Mineral Cut and Paste Worksheet:
In this part, students cut and paste objects under the "minerals" or "not a mineral" categories using a 5-point criteria.
 
Bonus Gallery Walk:
This is an optional activity that can be used instead of cut and paste. Many students love to move and learn and this gallery walk gives them this opportunity. Students get to interact with peers and have rich discussions on the topic.
 
I have included all answer keys to guide you.
 
I am confident this resource will be a wonderful addition to your rocks and minerals unit. It provides engaging actvity choices for the teacher. Students' learning experience is enhanced as they go through the activities. There's very little preparation needed on the part of the teacher which means valuable time can be saved. I know this resource will be valuable to you now and for years to come.
 
 
GRADE LEVEL:
7 - 9
 
Thanks and have a wonderful class!
Please reach out to eazyscience221@gmail.com with feedback and questions. Thanks and have an amazing class.