Types of rocks
I can use features to classify rocks into different groups and suggest properties of each type.
Types of rocks
I can use features to classify rocks into different groups and suggest properties of each type.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Sedimentary rocks contain distinct grains that are stuck together.
- Sedimentary rocks may contain fragments of shell or fossils, or larger pieces of grit or pebbles cemented together.
- Igneous rocks contain crystals that point in many directions; metamorphic rocks contain crystals that mostly line up.
- Rocks that contain interlocking grains or interlocking crystals are non-porous; rocks that don't are porous.
- The properties of rock influence their uses.
Keywords
Sedimentary - A type of rock formed from the compression of sediments (rock fragments, minerals and remains of dead plants and animals).
Metamorphic - A type of rock that has changed due to heat and/or pressure (e.g. marble, slate).
Igneous - A type of rock formed from magma, either erupted from a volcano (e.g. pumice) or cooled below ground (e.g. granite).
Porous - A rock with spaces between the grains.
Non-porous - A rock with no spaces between the grains or one that contains interlocking crystals.
Common misconception
Pupils sometimes focus on one feature to classify rocks as one type or another.
Stress that the rock classification system is gradual - show examples of various metamorphic rocks, highlighting similarities / differences.
To help you plan your year 8 science lesson on: Types of rocks, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 8 science lesson on: Types of rocks, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
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The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
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Explore more key stage 3 science lessons from the Earth's resources unit, dive into the full secondary science curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
Equipment
Sedimentary: limestone (sample with a fossil / shell), sandstone and conglomerate (sample with larger pebbles); metamorphic: marble, gneiss; igneous: granite, basalt and pumice; examination hand lens.
Content guidance
- Risk assessment required - equipment
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
Lesson video
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