Resources: Class presentation, vinegar, a pipette, a selection of different rocks and colouring pencils.
Core Handout (2): A sheet for the children to draw their own plaque and label their designs.
Challenge Handout (4): As above, with some additional questions on chemical weathering, physical weathering and biological weathering.
Enquiry Skill - Evaluating
Assessing the success of a scientific enquiry by evaluating the prediction, method and results and identifying further questions for enquiry.
Enquiry Approach - Problem-solving
Applying prior scientific knowledge to solve problems and answer further questions.
Recap on the children’s previous learning by asking them to sort the rocks on the starter slide into igneous, sedimentary and metamorphic rocks. Can the children remember some of the properties of these rocks and say what they are used for?
The lesson presentation will go through the different types of weathering that rocks have to endure: chemical weathering, physical weathering and biological weathering. The children will use this knowledge, combined with the knowledge from their previous investigation, to complete their independent task.
Demonstrate with the class how rock can be changed by chemical weathering. Explain to the children that rain contains acidic chemicals, similar to vinegar. Using a pipette, drop a few droplets of vinegar onto a range of different rocks. Observe what happens to each rock, noticing any colour change, fizzing or erosion.
Career Film: Take a tour around Widemouth Bay and The Etches Collection Museum on the Jurassic Coast to find out about Kirsty Simpson's job. Kirsty works as a Geologist for Nuclear Waste Management Services.
Expert Film: This is Kirsty Simpson. Kirsty works as a Geologist at Nuclear Waste Services. Kirsty explains why it is important to understand why and how rocks are weathered to do her job as she explores sites to build a Geological Disposal Facility.
Ask the children to design a school plaque to go above the entrance of your school. Their plaque will be outside and must be made of rock. Ask the children to draw their plaque and label what they have made it out of and why.
Challenge Task: Can the children explain what causes chemical weathering, physical weathering and biological weathering?
Discuss with the children which type of rock they decided to make their plaque out of. Why do they think this is a suitable rock?
Weathering is the process by which rocks are broken down and eroded by natural forces, such as wind, water, and ice. Weathering can have a significant impact on the suitability of rocks for different purposes.
Sedimentary rocks, which are often formed from small particles that have been compacted and cemented, are generally less resistant to weathering than igneous or metamorphic rocks. As a result, sedimentary rocks may be more prone to erosion or breaking down over time. This can make them unsuitable for construction purposes where durability is important.
Igneous rocks, on the other hand, are formed from cooling and solidification of molten material, and are generally more resistant to weathering and erosion. This makes them a good choice for construction projects where strength and durability are important. For example, granite is a common igneous rock that is often used in building and construction due to its strength and durability.
Metamorphic rocks, which are formed from the alteration of pre-existing rocks due to changes in temperature, pressure, or chemical environment, can have a wide range of properties depending on the type of rock and the degree of metamorphism. Some metamorphic rocks, such as marble, can be highly resistant to weathering and erosion, making them suitable for construction and decorative purposes.
In addition to their physical properties, the suitability of rocks for different purposes can also be influenced by their aesthetic qualities. For example, some rocks may have unique colours or patterns that make them highly valued for decorative purposes, such as in countertops or flooring.
Overall, understanding the weathering and properties of rocks is important for selecting the right type of rock for a particular purpose. Factors such as durability, strength, and aesthetic qualities should be taken into consideration when selecting a rock for construction or decorative purposes.