Activity Overview
Weathering is the process that breaks down larger rocks into smaller rock pieces and erosion is the movement of these smaller pieces. There are four agents of erosion: gravity, water, ice, and wind. In this activity, students will create a spider map that identifies and illustrates each agent of erosion. To challenge your more advanced students, have them find examples of different land formations caused by the erosion types.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Identify and describe four ways rocks can be eroded.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Identify four ways rocks can be eroded and label the titles of the cells.
- Find an image using Photos for Class to represent each type of erosion.
- Alternatively, use a series of scenes, shapes, characters, and props to create a Storyboard That visualization.
- Write a description of each type of erosion in the description box underneath the cell.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Identification | All four different agents of erosion have been correctly identified. | At least three different agents of erosion have been correctly identified. | At least two different agents of erosion have been correctly identified. |
| Images | Every type of agent of erosion has a correct, clear, and appropriate picture. | Every agent of erosion has a picture, but some of them are not clear or appropriate for the term. | Not every agent of erosion has an image. |
| Description | Every agent of erosion identified has a correct and clear description. | Every agent of erosion identified has a description, but some are confused and not entirely correct. | Not every agent of erosion method has a description or most of the descriptions are incorrect. |
| Evidence of Effort | Work is well written and carefully thought out. | Work shows some evidence of effort. | Work shows little evidence of any effort. |
Activity Overview
Weathering is the process that breaks down larger rocks into smaller rock pieces and erosion is the movement of these smaller pieces. There are four agents of erosion: gravity, water, ice, and wind. In this activity, students will create a spider map that identifies and illustrates each agent of erosion. To challenge your more advanced students, have them find examples of different land formations caused by the erosion types.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Identify and describe four ways rocks can be eroded.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Identify four ways rocks can be eroded and label the titles of the cells.
- Find an image using Photos for Class to represent each type of erosion.
- Alternatively, use a series of scenes, shapes, characters, and props to create a Storyboard That visualization.
- Write a description of each type of erosion in the description box underneath the cell.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Identification | All four different agents of erosion have been correctly identified. | At least three different agents of erosion have been correctly identified. | At least two different agents of erosion have been correctly identified. |
| Images | Every type of agent of erosion has a correct, clear, and appropriate picture. | Every agent of erosion has a picture, but some of them are not clear or appropriate for the term. | Not every agent of erosion has an image. |
| Description | Every agent of erosion identified has a correct and clear description. | Every agent of erosion identified has a description, but some are confused and not entirely correct. | Not every agent of erosion method has a description or most of the descriptions are incorrect. |
| Evidence of Effort | Work is well written and carefully thought out. | Work shows some evidence of effort. | Work shows little evidence of any effort. |
How Tos about Rocks and Weathering: Agents of Erosion
How to set up a hands-on erosion demonstration using simple classroom materials
Engage students with a visual and interactive erosion experiment using basic supplies. This activity helps students see how erosion works in real time, reinforcing key science concepts.
Gather common materials like sand, soil, trays, water, and small rocks
Collect inexpensive items such as plastic trays, cups, water, sand, soil, and a few small rocks. Having all materials ready ensures a smooth demonstration and keeps students focused on learning.
Build simple landscapes in trays to represent different environments
Shape the sand and soil in each tray to create hills, valleys, or riverbanks. Adding rocks can show how solid features affect erosion, making the demonstration more realistic and engaging for students.
Simulate erosion by adding water, blowing air, or gently shaking trays
Pour water to mimic rain, use a straw or fan for wind, and carefully tilt trays for gravity. Each method models a different agent of erosion, helping students visualize how landscapes change over time.
Guide students to observe and record changes after each simulation
Ask students to note differences in the landscape after each agent acts. Encourage them to discuss which agent caused the most change and why, building critical thinking and observation skills.
Frequently Asked Questions about Rocks and Weathering: Agents of Erosion
What are the four main agents of erosion in rocks and weathering?
The four main agents of erosion are gravity, water, ice, and wind. Each agent moves and shapes rock fragments in unique ways, forming different landforms over time.
How can I teach students about erosion with a simple classroom activity?
You can use a spider map activity where students identify, illustrate, and describe each agent of erosion. They can find images or create their own visuals and write brief explanations for each erosion type.
What is the difference between weathering and erosion for kids?
Weathering breaks rocks into smaller pieces, while erosion moves those pieces to new locations. Both processes work together to shape Earth’s surface.
What are some examples of landforms created by erosion?
Examples include canyons (water erosion), sand dunes (wind erosion), glacial valleys (ice erosion), and talus slopes (gravity erosion).
Why is understanding agents of erosion important for students?
Learning about agents of erosion helps students understand how Earth’s landscapes change over time and connects science lessons to real-world environments.
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