Earth+Science

The Rock Cycle

One way to show how the three main types of rock are related to each other, and how rock change over time is called the rock cycle. James Hutton (1726—1797), the 18th-century founder of modern geology is credited with coming up with the idea of the rock cycle. The main idea is that rocks are always changing from one type to another and back again. The reason for rocks changing over time is because there are forces inside the earth which brings them closer to the surface. Near, or at the surface they are weathered, eroded, and compacted (pushed together). There are also forces on the earth which causes them to sink back down below the surface where they are heated, pressed together, and melted. The elements that make up rocks are never created or destroyed, but instead they are constantly being recycled through the rock cycle. The rock cycle helps us to see that the earth is like a giant rock recycling machine.

1.) Look at the diagram of the rock cycle above and write an entry in the class blog below on what you think is going on. Respond to your classmates posts as well to add your own insight.
 * Journal Assignment #1 - A Picture is Worth A Thousand Words. **

2.) End your blog entry with at least two questions that you have now that you have started your study of the rock cycle. We will use your questions to help guide our studies on the rock cycle.

Marshall County Central Science Student Blog: Click to post your journal #1 assignment.


 * Assignment #1 - Three Main Rock Types **

Click on the following links and read about each of the following rock types. After reading about each of the three main rock types, answer the questions below.

1.) Igneous 2.) Sedimentary 3.) Metamorphic media type="custom" key="19094812"

**Rocks Field Investigation** Ever look at a rock and wonder how it was formed or how it has changed over time? In this field investigation, you are to find at least 5 different rocks from your yard, neighborhood, or town and observe them using a magnifying lens. In the “I notice…” response section, write down at least **15 different observations** of your collected rock specimens. In the “I wonder…” response section, write down at least **15 different questions** that you now have after observing your rocks. Look beyond the obvious observations such as, “This rock is black”.
 * Assignment #2 - Rocks Field Investigation **

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The geologic makeup of Minnesota is quite unique. Click on this link to explore some common rocks of Minnesota: Virtual Egg Carton - Minnesota's Rocks
 * Assignment #3 - Minnesota's Rocks **

After clicking on and reading about each of the 12 different rocks that are found in Minnesota you will be answering the following questions below.

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