The appearance of rocks
I can compare, group and identify different rocks by observing their appearance.
The appearance of rocks
I can compare, group and identify different rocks by observing their appearance.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- The appearance of rocks can be observed more closely using a hand lens or microscope.
- Rocks can be compared and grouped by appearance, by looking for similarities and differences.
- Different rocks have different names.
- Rocks can be identified and named using simple secondary sources of information.
Keywords
Rock - Rock is a solid material that occurs naturally in Earth.
Appearance - The appearance of an object is the way something looks.
Compare - To compare is to look for similarities and differences.
Identify - To identify is to name something correctly.
Secondary sources - Information gathered using secondary sources is information that has been collected by someone else.
Common misconception
Children may think that rocks are all just called 'rock' and they don't have different appearances and different names.
Make sure the rock samples you give them are not actual objects, e.g. an ornament, so they are not able to use usage as a way to classify. Use a wide range of rocks that are very different so the children can identify them correctly.
Equipment
See additional materials for full guidance.
Content guidance
- Risk assessment required - equipment
- Exploration of objects
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), 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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Starter quiz
6 Questions
Exit quiz
6 Questions
