Weathering and rocks
I can explain the different types of weathering.
Weathering and rocks
I can explain the different types of weathering.
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Lesson details
Key learning points
- There are three types of weathering; biological, chemical and physical weathering.
- Biological weathering is when rocks are broken up by the roots of plants or from animals burrowing into them.
- Chemical weathering is when rocks are broken up by acids in rainwater or when air reacts with minerals in the rocks.
- Physical weathering is when rocks are broken up by changes in temperature, such as when ice forces apart cracks in rock.
Keywords
Biological - relating to living organisms
Chemical - relating to the interaction of substances
Weathering - the process of being worn down by long exposure to the atmosphere
Common misconception
Weathering and erosion are the same process.
Students will be informed that erosion is the process of Earth’s surface, e.g. rock or soil, being worn away and transported from its original site, whereas weathering is the process of wearing or being worn by long exposure to the atmosphere.
To help you plan your year 8 geography lesson on: Weathering and rocks, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 8 geography lesson on: Weathering and rocks, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
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Explore more key stage 3 geography lessons from the Rocks, weathering and soil: Why is geology important? unit, dive into the full secondary geography curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
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