Simple gravel is loaded with a number of interesting rocks and minerals.
Geology can present a particular challenge for the early elementary school science teacher. These lessons can sometimes be hard to grasp because they require the pupil to understand moderately complex systems of organizing the materials that make up the world and to acquire a new lexicon of terms. Study of rocks and minerals creates opportunities for hands-on activities, extending the lesson from a simple lecture to a fun multi-modal experience.
Rock Hunts
Rock hunts can vary from a simple excursion to a school lot to a daylong field trip to a road cut or mineral bed. In either case, the pupils should be shown the visible features of minerals and rocks, such as color, luster, crystal form and transparency, before and during the hunt to guide them in their efforts. Encourage them to collect stones of all types, not just ones that look nice.
Rock Dunks
This activity is fun for pupils because it allows you to instruct them to do something that seems absurd, but can help them identify the stone and teach them some science along the way. Have the pupils carefully place the stone they are studying into a meniscus-full beaker with a large flat dish underneath. Have them weigh the water displaced and compare it to the weight of the rock -- a lesson in specific gravity.
Scratch Tests
Scratch tests are a fine way to introduce pupils to the concept of the Mohs hardness scale. By rubbing various rocks against things with known hardness, such as pennies, nails and panes of glass, pupils can narrow down the identity of their samples and learn more about the relative harness of items in the world around them. Also have them test the hardness of common materials such as pencil lead (graphite) for comparison.
Acid Test
This is an activity that sounds scary but is actually quite safe and fun. Pupils are given a small sample of acetic acid (common household vinegar) and an eyedropper. They should apply the drops to each of their stones until they notice bubbling on one of them. This test indicates the presence of calcium carbonate, which is found in limestone. This allows them to distinguish the difference between sandstone and limestone-based rocks.
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