The rock cycle is a group of processes that continually recycles rocks. These processes occur over millions of years, but not all the processes happen at the same rate. There are three main types of rocks that appear during the cycle sedimentary, igneous, and metamorphic. In this activity, students will create a rock cycle diagram. To stretch more advanced students, encourage them to explain each process in short detail either by adding a description to the storyboard or an additional textable. Alternatively, support students who need more help by giving them a list of processes and having them label a scene.
| Process | Description |
|---|---|
| Sedimentation | The process where layers of rock particles build up |
| Compaction and Cementation | The process where the layers of sediment are compressed and stuck together |
| Heat and Pressure | The process that can change sedimentary rock into metamorphic rock |
| Melting | The process which can form igneous rock, where solid rocks are turned to molten rock |
| Uplift | The process where rocks are pushed upwards by the pressure of rocks forming underneath |
| Weathering | The process by which large rocks are broken down into smaller parts |
| Erosion, Transportation, and Deposition | The processes by which rock particles are moved |
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Student Instructions
Create a visual representation of the rock cycle.
Capture students' attention by connecting the rock cycle to a tangible, memorable experiment they can see and touch. This approach reinforces key concepts and helps diverse learners grasp how rocks change over time.
Use familiar items to model sedimentary, metamorphic, and igneous processes. This minimizes prep time and ensures every student can participate regardless of classroom resources.
Show how rocks break down as you create “sediment” by shaving crayons. Discuss how weathering turns large rocks into smaller particles just like in nature.
Help students observe sedimentary rock formation by pressing layers together. Point out how pressure causes loose particles to stick and form new rocks.
Simulate the rock cycle’s heat and pressure by carefully warming the foil packet. Guide students to notice texture and color changes that represent metamorphic rocks.
Demonstrate how rocks melt and cool by fully melting the crayons in foil and letting them harden. Explain how this models magma cooling into igneous rock.
The rock cycle is a continuous process where rocks transform between three main types: sedimentary, igneous, and metamorphic. It involves natural processes like weathering, erosion, melting, and pressure that recycle rocks over millions of years.
To make a simple rock cycle diagram, use shapes and arrows to show how sedimentary, igneous, and metamorphic rocks change through processes like melting, pressure, and erosion. Label each part and add brief descriptions for clarity.
The main rock cycle processes include sedimentation, compaction and cementation, heat and pressure, melting, uplift, weathering, and erosion, transportation, and deposition.
Sedimentary rocks form from layers of particles, igneous rocks form when molten rock cools, and metamorphic rocks result when existing rocks change due to heat and pressure.
Support advanced students by having them write short descriptions for each process. For those needing help, provide a list of processes for labeling. Use visuals and group work to make the lesson accessible for all learners.