Rocks in our Backyard

More of a mini-unit than a lesson, these activities lead inquisitors through a survey of oil deposits. In the first part, they read about and view diagrams of sedimentary rock layers that trap oil. Next, they test porosity and...

Sedimentary rocks are the building blocks of this geology instructional activity. In it, learners discover what sedimentary rocks are and how they form. They understand the differences between the major sedimentary rock varieties and...

This lesson will present how to identify and classify sedimentary rocks. It is 3 of 3 in the series titled "Geology: Sedimentary Rocks." [4:29]

A timely resource illustrates the effects of the passing years on sedimentary rock formation! Young geologists discover just how long it takes to create shale, slate, and other sedimentary rocks. The interactive also shows...

Students review the three types of rocks and the rock cycle. They participate in an experiment in which they discover the lithification process of sedimentary rocks. They record and share their observations.

A simple activity goes a long way in demonstrating the property of porosity to your rock hounds. They will mass a specimen of dry sandstone and then soak it in a pre-measured amount of water. After seven minutes, they once again measure...

Presents photographs of examples of clastic, chemical, and organic sedimentary rocks, with short descriptions underneath each rock image. Each rock name is also linked to its own dedicated page with a great deal of additional information...

Rocks hold the history of the earth and the materials that will be used to build its future. This website holds a treasure of information regarding igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary rocks.

The goal of this fine geology instructional activity is to have learners create a map that shows how the rock layers are arranged far underground where they can't be seen. The ambitious lesson plan requires high schoolers to learn the...

Essential guide to geology of the National Parks focuses on minerals and the different types of rocks. Includes a visual glossary.