Classification of Rocks

Lesson Plan - Get It!

Audio:

You don't have to go far to find a rock.

In fact, you can say that the earth's crust is one giant rock. Rocks come in all shapes, textures, and sizes.

Rocks may be formed deep beneath the earth, or they may also form on its surface. Wherever they are formed, rocks are interesting geological features to study.

Geologists (people who study rocks) have identified three main classifications of rocks.

1. igneous rocks
2. metamorphic rocks
3. sedimentary rocks

As you watch the video below, pay attention to the three types of rocks mentioned and some of the special features of each rock.

Now, look closely at some rocks from each classification using the slider beneath the images below.

As you look at each, observe the characteristics of the rocks. For example, observe the shape, size, color, and texture (how you imagine the rock would feel).

Before you move to the Got It? section, review the three classifications of rocks by singing along to this song. Feel free to sing as loudly as you wish!

Now that you have learned to identify the three categories of rocks, rock on to the Got It? section to summarize what you have learned.

Once you are there, you will have the opportunity to name each rock group and test your understanding of rock classification with a guessing game.