LEARN NC

K–12 teaching and learning · from the UNC School of Education

Goal 3

The learner will build an understanding of the geological cycles, forces, processes, and agents which shape the lithosphere.

Objective 3.04

Describe the processes which form and the uses of earth materials.

  • Rock cycle.
  • Minerals.
  • Characteristics of rocks.
  • Economic use of rocks and minerals.
  • Value of gems and precious metals.
  • Common gems, minerals, precious metals and rocks found in N.C.

Resources aligned to this objective

Study your rocks and eat them too!
The instructor will use a liquid batter to cook pancakes to model the formation of igneous rocks.
Format: lesson plan (grade 6 Science)
By George Scherger.
Uses of rocks and minerals
In this lesson plan for grade 6, students will gain an understanding of the economic importance of rocks and minerals by exploring their applications in various careers.
Format: lesson plan (grade 6 Science)
By April Galloway and Christine Scott.

Lesson plans on the web

Delving into the Grand Canyon
Students learn about how the Grand Canyon was formed and what the region looked like at the time each layer of rock was deposited. They draw diagrams of the canyon and its layers and write captions to describe what they have drawn. (Learn more)
Format: lesson plan (grade 6 Science)
Provider: National Geographic
How are islands formed?
This Xpeditions lesson provides students with information about how islands are formed, including a basic knowledge of plate tectonics. Using the islands of Hawaii as an example, students learn about the Earth processes that cause the formation of islands. (Learn more)
Format: lesson plan (grade 6 Science)
Provider: National Geographic
How sedimentary rocks are formed
This Science NetLinks lesson briefly reviews the rock cycle in general and then focuses on sedimentary rocks. Students do a hands-on activity using mixed nuts to illustrate the layering of sedimentary rocks. (Learn more)
Format: lesson plan (grade 6 Science)
Provider: American Association for the Advancement of Science
We're in hot water now: Hydrothermal vents
In this Xpeditions lesson, students first use National Geographic's "Fantastic Journeys: Yellowstone" feature to learn about the processes that drive geysers. (Learn more)
Format: lesson plan (grade 6 Science and Computer Technology Skills)
Provider: National Geographic