A mineral is an element or compound with a crystal–like structure. They are the 'building blocks' of rocks.

Crystalline describes a rock composed of interlocking crystals. It is ‘crystal–like’.

A rock is a solid substance, which is a mixture of minerals. It composes any solid portion of Earth.

Rocks and minerals

Science

Inside rock

Types of rocks

Structure of Earth

Tectonic plates

Igneous rock

Metamorphic rock

In the Carbon Cycle and Climate Change unit, pupils will build on their understanding of Earth's resources to learn about the formation of sedimentary rocks and fossil fuels, and the impact of burning fossil fuels within the carbon cycle.

In the key stage 2 Rocks unit, pupils learnt to compare and group rocks on the basis of their appearance and simple physical properties and that soil is made of rocks and organic matter.

This unit explores Earth's composition, structure, and rock cycle, including the formation of igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks. It also examines Earth as a source of limited resources and the importance of recycling, alongside skills in making and evaluating observations and measurements.

Earth's resources

A naturally occurring pure substance with a crystal structure.

An element or compound found only in rocks.

A substance formed from fossilised plants.

Rocks are mixtures of minerals or organic matter.

Rocks can only be composed of a single mineral.

Rocks form part of Earth's solid surface.

Rocks are always made from organic matter.

Which of the following statements about rocks are correct?

Which of the following characteristics are used to identify different minerals?

Minerals are synthetic, rocks are natural.

Minerals have a crystal structure, rocks do not.

Minerals are pure substances, rocks are mixtures.

What is the primary difference between a mineral and a rock?

Crystalline describes a substance composed of interlocking {{}}. 

Which of the following are states of matter?

Elements are made of one type of atom, compounds are made of two or more types.

Compounds are made of one type of atom, elements are made of two or more types.

Elements are always gases, compounds are always solids.

Compounds can be broken down chemically, elements cannot.

What is the difference between an element and a compound?

Which of the following materials are suitable for building a house?

Examples of {{}} properties include hardness, colour, density, and melting point. Flammability is a chemical property.

Exit Quiz

What is a mineral?