Summary of Lesson Plan:
This lesson provides students with the opportunity to develop an understanding of the different kinds of rocks and how they are formed through a real world-learning context. This lesson was designed for a year 8 class; it has been tested and worked well with high student engagement.
Australian Curriculum Links:
Year 8 Science Understanding:
- Sedimentary, igneous and metamorphic rocks contain minerals and are formed by processes that occur within Earth over a variety of timescales (ACSSU153)
- AC Elaborations:
- representing the stages in the formation of igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary rocks, including indications of timescales involved.
- identifying a range of common rock types using a key based on observable physical and chemical properties.
- recognising that rocks are a collection of different minerals.
- considering the role of forces and energy in the formation of different types of rocks and minerals.
- recognising that some rocks and minerals, such as ores, provide valuable resources.
Lesson Plan Sequence:
*** Please note that this lesson sequence is supported through the use of a Powerpoint presentation ***
- Show the students the power point provided below.
- Students then complete the worksheet.
- As a class, discuss the answers.
- Have the students create an informative poster on one of the rocks with facts and pictures. (they will need to research facts)
- Present the posters to the class.
Conclusion:
- Check student understanding about what they have learned about how sedimentary, igneous and metamorphic rocks are formed over time.
Assessment Ideas:
- Anecdotal notes on students
- Collect worksheets to check understanding.
- Use posters as summative assessment.
- Students record their findings using a digital device and share with class.
Resources:
Download all of the lesson-related resources below:
- Rocks (Sedimentary, Igneous and Metamorphic) Powerpoint (PPTX)
- Rocks (Sedimentary, Igneous and Metamorphic) Worksheet (DOCX)
- Rocks (Sedimentary, Igneous and Metamorphic) Worksheet Answers (DOCX)
- Poster paper
- Pens/pencils
- Colouring pencils
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