Model the process of metamorphic rock formation with this lab. Start by making an imprint fossil to model a sedimentary rock and then morph this rock into a metamorphic one. Students can challenge each other to guess what they used to form their rocks. Directions are laid out simply and clearly for students to follow on their own without help.
Use this to learn and reinforce answers to questions such as:
❑ How are metamorphic rocks formed?
❑ What are metamorphic rocks made of?
❑ Why are fossils rare in metamorphic rocks?
Concepts Addressed
♦ There are three types of rocks (Sedimentary, Metamorphic, and Igneous
♦ Metamorphic rocks are formed when other rocks are under high temperature and/or pressure
Standards Addressed
NGSS MS-ESS2-1
TEKS 6.10B
VA SOL ES.5.c
Materials Needed: clay and small shells (preferred--or other small items to make imprints)
Teaching Time About 20–30 min.
Student Sheets Scaffolded writing prompts & lab reporting
Answer Keys and Teacher Notes address most questions and issues that might arise in this study—you shouldn’t have to do any outside research unless you want to.
