Rock Cookies

We have been talking about how rocks are formed. Today, I did a demonstration lesson to show the 3 ways rocks are formed. The kids were super jazzed about it. I told them I would post the directions on the blog for any family who wanted to do it at home. You can let you child show you how different rocks are formed.

Igneous Rocks - they are formed when magma deep in the Earth comes to the surface through volcanic activity. The magma turns to lava and then cools into rocks.

Take different materials - chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, butterscotch chips, etc.....these are the different materials/minerals deep within the Earth. Put them in a crockpot/microwave and watch how they melt and all mix together. Pour the mixture out onto wax paper and watch it cool and harden into something brand new (igneous rock)

Sedimentary Rocks - Rocks that are formed layer by layer in rivers/streams/oceans. Layers of dirt, rocks, shells, plant, animals settle on the bottom of the river. Each layer compresses the layers beneath it. In time, these layers harden and form rocks.

Take graham crackers and spread some peanut butter - this is your layer of dirt. Sprinkle some pebbles (raisins, choc, chips, nuts, etc). Layer another cracker on top and keep layering until you have a rock cookie with several layers of different materials.

Metamorphic Rocks - Minerals and materials that are turned into rock by the heat and pressure from being underground.

Take a piece of salt water taffy or a tootsie roll, and using the heat and pressure from your hands to meld it into a new shape (i.e. a new rock).