Rocks & The Rock Cycle Unit Study {lower elementary}
This simple rock unit study was the perfect subject to go along with reading the book “Skunk & Badger”…but you could do the unit study solo as well.
Check out my Skunk & Badger Novel Study to create a paired learning experience.
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The unit study uses videos, book, and worksheets to help kids learn to identify the 3 main types of rocks as well as how the rock cycle works.
There are also options for experiments and other hands on learning.
Download the unit study below for some easy rock science for kids. This one is free as I didn’t create extra resources but I have created a schedule and a list of all the resources I used to make it easier for you!
Use it with a group in a classroom or like we did, for some homeschool science activities.
This unit study is free or low cost depending on what books you can find at your library and where you can get a hold of rocks.
What You’ll Need
- Schedule and Resource Guide with links (Download below)
- Rock Study info from 123 Homeschool for me (I don’t like to reinvent the wheel when I don’t have to).
- Rocks – you may be able to get some from a friend, homeschool resource library, or a gem store. Otherwise check Amazon or Etsy. You’ll need at least 3 rocks from each category.
- DK: Super Earth
Rock Identification for kids
The main hands on portion of this unit study is having kids create their own rock identification chart. (Don’t mind the torn paper on ours, my kids started removing the rocks before I remembered to take a photo.)
As you learn about each category of rock (igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic) they label the row and add 2 examples of that type of rock.
Once you’ve learned about all three types kids get 3 mystery rocks and they get to use their knowledge to try to place them in the correct category.
Our unit study lasted about 5 weeks as we did it with our book study. You could do it more quickly as it’s a simple study designed for lower elementary age kids.
If your kids get super interested you could definitely dive deeper and explore gems and minerals too!
