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Characteristics and distribution of UK rock types
I can describe the characteristics and distribution of rock types in the UK.
Lesson 2 of 3
New
New
- Year 10
- Edexcel B
Characteristics and distribution of UK rock types
I can describe the characteristics and distribution of rock types in the UK.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Rock types have distinctive physical and chemical characteristics.
- Igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary rocks are found in the UK.
- Igneous rocks form from cooling molten magma.
- Sedimentary rocks form from accumulated sediments.
- Metamorphic rocks change due to heat and/or pressure.
Keywords
Igneous rocks - rocks formed from the cooling of molten magma
Sedimentary rocks - rocks formed from accumulated sediments
Metamorphic rocks - rocks changed by heat and/or pressure
Chalk - a soft white sedimentary rock found in southern England
Granite - a hard igneous rock found in upland UK areas
Common misconception
Rocks do not change once they are formed.
Metamorphic rocks are created by heat and pressure acting on sedimentary and igneous rocks.
It would be useful to have samples of different rock types in the classroom for students to look at.
Teacher tip
Equipment
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2026), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Match the keywords to their definitions.
Match the keywords to their definitions.
Q2.Lowland areas in the UK are mostly found in the ...
Lowland areas in the UK are mostly found in the ...
north and west
centre of Scotland
mountain ranges
Q3.What physical process helps shape coastlines?
What physical process helps shape coastlines?
Farming
Mining
Traffic
Q4.The River Severn is the UK's river.
The River Severn is the UK's river.
Q5.Which type of rock is likely found in upland areas?
Which type of rock is likely found in upland areas?
Clay
Sand
Q6.What often makes lowland areas more suitable for farming?
What often makes lowland areas more suitable for farming?
Steep slopes
Rocky surfaces
Ice cover
Assessment exit quiz
4 Questions
Q1.Match the keywords to their definitions.
Match the keywords to their definitions.
Q2.Granite is a hard rock found in upland areas of the UK.
Granite is a hard rock found in upland areas of the UK.
Q3.Which rock is less resistant to erosion, white, and found in southern England?
Which rock is less resistant to erosion, white, and found in southern England?
Granite
Basalt
Slate
Q4.Which of these is true about rocks?
Which of these is true about rocks?
Rocks stay the same forever
Rocks can change only by melting
Rocks cannot be broken down
