The Rock Cycle Mini Unit Resources

The Rock Cycle Mini Unit for NGSS MS ESS2-1

In The Rock Cycle mini unit, students hypothesize how different rocks form based on their observations and then they model intrusive and extrusive igneous rocks by making rock candy.  Finally, they write the life story of a rock from the rock’s point of view. For an extension activity, students choose a project based on one of their multiple intelligences.  They can write a rock rap, interview a geologist or create their own rock collection!

Anchor Phenomenon Ideas:  Kids love looking at and sorting rocks.  Anchor your unit with a big pile of rocks!  Allow students to observe, sort and organize the rocks on their own terms.  Use the authentic questions they come up with to make connections throughout your rock cycle unit.  

Make it Relevant:  Focus on rocks and minerals that are essential to your students' lives and/or found locally.  The University of Oregon has a great list of everyday uses of rocks and minerals.  Also look for local resources like this University of Minnesota Virtual Egg Carton of rocks.

Tips and Tricks:  If it is easier to manage, make the rock candy recipe as a whole class.  Students can each make their own rock candy sticks and you can clean up once instead of many times.  As you wait for the rock candy to form over two days, students can move on to questions six and seven in their packet as well as the vocabulary review.

Check your local Department of Natural Resources to help students find incredible resources like this "Ask a Rock" story from the MN Conservation Volunteer Magazine.