Inquiry-based Learning in Three Parts through the Study of Rocks and Minerals

Rocks and minerals are of great importance in the history of our Earth, although it unfortunately remains a concept that lacks lustre and enthusiasm for elementary students. Most students are able to comprehend the differences between rocks and minerals and how formations occur over time, however, the tangible relationships students can gain by interacting with various types of rocks and minerals and causation by rocks and minerals remains detached.
The following activities will span across approximately eight fifty-minute science periods each, allowing students to learn about rocks and minerals, causes and effects of mining and erosion and their societal and environmental implications, as well as the use and disposal of rocks and minerals through hands-on experiences and self-guided discovery. The purpose is for the learning to be student-directed through the setup of the materials and stations.