Students organize rock samples according to their properties. In this earth science lesson, students predict whether they are igneous, metamorphic or sedimentary. They compare their prediction with the actual type.

Maple syrup is deliciously gooey and great on breakfast foods like pancakes and waffles. But it has another amazing property. It can form crystals under the right circumstances, and the crystals change in size and shape, depending on...

Through this series of three lessons, students will gain an understanding of the basics of mineral science. In their investigation they will also work through the scientific process as they practice their observation skills, form...

The minerals that make up igneous rocks crystallize at a range of different temperatures. The sequence in which minerals crystallize from magma is known as the Bowen reaction series. An explanation of the reaction series is provided...

Explore the effects that an invasive species can have on the environment. In this interactive lesson, students learn how Lyngbya, a destructive form of algae, is creating environmental problems for the plants and wildlife in the Crystal...

In this video segment adapted from NOVA, dramatic footage of avalanches and animations of ice crystals illustrate how a layer of weakly-bonded snow can contribute to a devastating avalanche. [4:03]

Students will work in groups to grow crystals in different conditions, and then make conclusions about how and why crystals form. A detailed procedure and materials list, follow-up questions, and a teacher's guide that contains extension...

This is an exploration of polyhedron and may be used as a lesson plan. The site contains links to various crystals that are formed as polyhedron, and links to creating your own paper polyhedron. Other exciting related links on polyhedral...

Make your own crystals with this fun experiment. Different crystals have different shapes. What shape did your crystals form? Video tutorial included.

Science Bob provides instructions for how to form geode crystals in eggshells using common supplies with information on why it works.

This resrouce presents instructions for using nine easy to obtain materials for making crystals. The lab takes about 24 hours and it contains a brief explanation of how crystals form.

What are crystals? Discover how they are formed, what the evaporation and cooling crystallization process are, and the shapes of crystals.

Kid's learn about the science of crystals. Repeating patterns of molecules form interesting shapes.

This page explains how snowflakes are formed. Find out if all snowflakes are really different.

Is it true that no two snowflakes are alike? Take a look at the details that make up a snowflake to find out if the statement holds any truth.

[Free Registration/Login may be required to access all resource tools.] In the following online tutorial students will learn to explain how an ionic bond is formed when electrons are transferred from one atom to another in terms of the...

This site provides a tour of the discovery and development of the transistor form PBS, including video and lesson plans.

Companion to a PBS program in the Nova series. There are wonderful photos of the Lechuguilla cave system in New Mexico, and some new information on how caves are formed.

This set of lesson plans was developed to accompany Ground Rules: Mining Right for a Sustainable Future, a documentary film created by Caterpillar and Science North. They introduce students to the various phases involved in mining,...

Instructional module focusing on the physical properties of minerals. Discussion includes the identifying characteristics such as color, hardness, luster, crystal forms, density, and cleavage. Site also includes an interactive practice...

This photo shows aragonite, a carbonate mineral and one of two crystal forms of calcium carbonate.

[Free Registration/Login Required] An interactive animation demonstrating how the mineral crystal in an igneous rock formed due to the cooling magma. Site also includes a short quiz on the formation of the crystal.

A college course featuring mineral image galleries, labs, and instructor's notes on the topics of crystalline structure, crystal chemistry, and bonding in rock-forming minerals.

No two snowflakes are the same, but they may have the same form. Learn about the basic forms of snowflakes as well as how some scientists classify them. Explore the site to find out other information as well.