Today's Classroom Activities :
These Lessons Rock!
Potpourri Rocks
Art/Science Ask the children to bring in different kinds of rocks to examine. Then, in a small bowl, mix together:
- 1 cup flour
- 1 cup salt
- 1/2 tsp. scented oil
- food coloring (optional)
- 1 cup warm water
Have the students mix the ingredients with their hands until a stiff, smooth dough forms. Allow each child to shape small pieces that resemble rocks. Let the dough air-dry for 24 hours or until hard. Make a couple different batches using different coloring. Use for holiday gifts by placing them in colored mini-cupcake papers. Be mindful of allergies when selecting fragrances.
Edible Rocks — Meteorites
This lesson has been designed as a comfortable introduction to describing meteorites. It helps students become better observers by making a connection between the familiar (candy bars) and the unfamiliar (meteorites). Edible "rocks" are used in a scientific context, showing students the importance of observation, teamwork and communication skills.
Sampling Rocks
Students will learn about sampling through an investigation of rocks found in the schoolyard.
Glowing Rocks
The Earth is really one BIG rock! Have your students discover the glowing colors of fluorescent stones with this art project.
Petroglyph People
Students will examine the art of Petroglyphs and learn to recognize the different characteristics of this art form in various cultures.
Rock Stories
In this lesson, students learn that a rock's properties tell stories about where it came from and where it has been. The lesson illustrates how to make geologic observations and gives background about the important properties of rocks to observe. Students then use those observation skills to describe rocks they find on their own Schoolyard. This web site describes specific "geologic" features found on playgrounds (with photos and rocks from example schools).
