Earth Rocks!
The purpose of this lesson is to introduce students to the basic elements of our Earth's crust: rocks, soils and minerals. They learn how we categorize rocks, soils and minerals and how they are literally the foundation for our civilization. Students also explore how engineers use rocks, soils and minerals to create the buildings, roads, vehicles, electronics, chemicals, and other objects we use to enhance our lives.
Figure 1. A picture of an amethyst crystal. Amethyst is a type of quartz and is a mineral that is found in the Earth.Copyright U.S. Geological Survey and the Mineral Information Institute, http://resourcescommittee.house.gov/ subcommittees/emr/usgsweb/ photogallery/
Engineers care about rocks, soils and minerals. One reason they are important is that they are the foundation for our buildings and roads. Engineers also get many of the materials they use for construction from rocks, soils, and minerals. Engineers must understand the properties of these rocks, soils, and minerals so that they can use the ideal material for a job that is efficient and cost effective.
After this lesson, students should be able to:
- Describe the difference betweens rocks, soils and minerals.
- Explain that engineers use rocks, soils and minerals for constructing and manufacturing.