Perfect with my lesson!

The Pet Rock Project was exactly what I needed in my 6th grade classroom. I will be using this article in the next few weeks by having students choose their own rocks (I will have available ... See More

The Pet Rock Project was exactly what I needed in my 6th grade classroom. I will be using this article in the next few weeks by having students choose their own rocks (I will have available rocks if they forget to bring in one) where they must follow along with the instructions from the article. We have covered the rock cycle, so students must use their knowledge to determine what type of rock their rock pet is. Once students have decorated their rocks to their liking, they will write a "Rockumentary" where they create a documentary of the live their rock has lived. I believe students will enjoy this activity because it allows them to show their creativity while also integrating writing and story telling into science. I loved this article and it was the perfect activity for my rocks unit!

Identify Your Rock

Students are given a ‘pet’ rock which they must identify as igneous, sedimentary or metamorphic as well as where this rock might be found in the rock cycle. Students use websites to help th... See More

Students are given a ‘pet’ rock which they must identify as igneous, sedimentary or metamorphic as well as where this rock might be found in the rock cycle. Students use websites to help them identify the rock. The directions for this activity plus the rubric are provided in this article. At the culmination of the activity students must not only state the type of rock they have but must draw their own version of the rock cycle. Students may decorate their rock as well. Sample presentations are provided. This seems like a fun way to learn about the rock cycle and students bear the responsibility of understanding the processes of the cycle.