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Rock Classification
Targets:
Know the three types of rocks, how they are formed, and the characteristics unique to each type of rock
Use scientific test and a dichotomous key to identify rocks and minerals
Using deductive reasoning, classify and identify rocks using a dichotomous key
Look at rock samples and a key that will help you classify them.
Classify the rock samples. The rocks are igneous, sedimentary, or metamorphic.
MATERIALS
hand lens, 6-8 rock samples, and Rock Classification Key data sheet
HYPOTHESIS:____________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________.
PROCEDURE
Look at the Rock Classification Key. Each step of the key has two statements.
Start with Step 1 of the key. Choose the statement that best describes your rock sample.
Look at the end of the statement. Go to the step number it shows.
Data Table
Sample # Description of Visible Properties Rock Type *BONUS*
(Igneous, Sedimentary, Rock Name
(Ex: 1, 2, 3, etc.) (Ex: color, weight, minerals, layers, shiny, crystals, etc)
Metamorphic)
OBSERVE AND ANALYZE
1. Interpret Use the Rock Classification Key and the information in the table to find the rock type. Write the
type of each rock in the "Rock Type" column.
2. Identify Limits Did you have problems using the key? If so, what were they?
CONCLUDE
1. Compare and Contrast How are igneous and metamorphic rocks alike?
How can you tell igneous and metamorphic rocks apart?
2. Analyze Examine a sedimentary rock sample in which you can see particles that are held together. In
addition to sight, what other sense could help you classify the rock?
3. Apply Think about what you learned from this lab that would help you make a classification key that
someone else could use. How would you make a key to classify a collection of music CDs?
Write the first pair of statements that would start your music CD classification key. Use the Rock Classification
Key as a model.
Key to Rock Classification
1. Look at the composition of your rock. Is the rock made up of visible particles? (for example,
mineral crystals or sand)
YES………………………… go to 3 NO………………………….. go to 2
2. Look at the texture of your rock. Is the rock glassy or porous (sponge-like)?
3. Determine the type of particles that make up your rock. Is the rock made up of individual particles
(sand or pebbles) that are cemented together?
4. Determine if the mineral crystals of the rock. Do the rocks mineral crystals tend to line up or form
bands (foliation)?
5. Determine if the rock is made up of layers. Does the rock have layers or break into layers?
7. Look at the mineral crystals. Is the rock made up of two or more types of mineral crystals?
1. Is the rock composed of layers? (A magnifying glass may be needed to determine whether the
rock has layers or not.)
YES………………………… go to 3 NO………………………….. go to 2
YES………………………… go to 4 NO………………………….. go to 5
Skills Targets:
· Use scientific tests to identify rocks and minerals
· Demonstrate an understanding of how rocks an minerals are used in real life situations
Add Reasoning Targets
Reasoning Targets:
· Using deductive reasoning, classify and identify rocks using a dichotomous key
· Connect the purpose of rocks and minerals with their characteristics
· Make a connection about the relationship between rocks and minerals and understand how different combinations of each determine
the different type of rock formed
· Investigate and research examples where natural forces on or within the earth are changing or have changed rocks through the rock
cycle. Identify these natural forces and explain their roles in the rock cycle.