A collection of common sedimentary, metamorphic and igneous rocks. Each rock has images showing particle arrangements, the rock after weathering, hand sized specimens and the rock in use.

Websites

Additional information

A resource showing 19 different types of rock categorised into sedimentary, metamorphic or igneous rock. Each rock has an image of the particle arrangement, after weathering, a hand sized sample and the rock in use. This resource prompts students to draw links between the rock type and particle arrangement. There are also follow up questions for students to apply their knowledge and understanding.

This resource has been developed by the Earth Science Education Unit.

If you teach primary science, see the headings below to find out how to use this resource:

Skill development

Children will develop their working scientifically skills by:

  • Asking their own questions about scientific phenomena.
  • Selecting and planning the most appropriate ways to answer science questions, including:
    • Finding things out using a wide range of secondary sources of information.

Learning outcomes

Children will:

  • Compare and group together different kinds of rocks on the basis of their appearance and simple physical properties.

Concepts supported

Children will learn:

  • That rocks can be grouped according to their simple physical properties.
  • That the properties of different materials, in this case rocks, makes them suitable for different purposes.

Suggested activity use

This resource could be used as a whole-class starter to introduce to the different types of rocks and their properties. Alternatively, the site can be shared with families, with children being asked to explore the content at home. The resource provides information about how rocks are formed and what particular uses they may have.

You could choose to use the resource as a follow-up activity, with groups of children working independently to answer questions. The questions can be either those set by you or the ones in the resource.

Practical considerations

The resource is an online activity so access to a computer and the internet will be required.
This activity is most effective when used to supplement other activities, particularly those where children examine collections of real rocks.