Rocks

Activities:

1. Rocks are Different Sort by color and shape. Bring in a variety of rocks and stones. Include, if possible, pumice stone, lava and quartz. Children can classify rocks in many ways. Color and Size. Smooth and Rough Shiny and Dull

2. Grains of Sand are Rocks

Place sand on shallow trays. Have magnifying glasses available for children to see that the grains of sand are different in shape and color when seen through a magnifying glass.

3. Some Rocks Tell Stories

Place on display a variety of rocks. Include at least one with a fossil.

Discussion:

What kind of living thing left its imprint? Was it an animal, a plant, or something that lived in the sea?

Gather an assortment of sticks, shells, leaves, and bones. Make a slab of clay available for each child. Have children use the assorted objects to make imprints to form their own fossils. Let dry.

4. Some Rocks are Heavier Than Other Rocks

Use assorted left over socks. Fill one sock half way up with sand. Tie it at the top. Have the children watch as you place one rock in each of the other socks. The rocks should be of similar size but different weights. Have children compare the weight of the sand and the weight of the rocks. Which ones are heavier? A lot of little rocks can weigh more than one big rock.