Activity Overview
The rock cycle is a group of processes that continually recycles rocks. These processes occur over millions of years, but not all the processes happen at the same rate. There are three main types of rocks that appear during the cycle sedimentary, igneous, and metamorphic. In this activity, students will create a rock cycle diagram. To stretch more advanced students, encourage them to explain each process in short detail either by adding a description to the storyboard or an additional textable. Alternatively, support students who need more help by giving them a list of processes and having them label a scene.
Rock Cycle Processes
| Process | Description |
|---|---|
| Sedimentation | The process where layers of rock particles build up |
| Compaction and Cementation | The process where the layers of sediment are compressed and stuck together |
| Heat and Pressure | The process that can change sedimentary rock into metamorphic rock |
| Melting | The process which can form igneous rock, where solid rocks are turned to molten rock |
| Uplift | The process where rocks are pushed upwards by the pressure of rocks forming underneath |
| Weathering | The process by which large rocks are broken down into smaller parts |
| Erosion, Transportation, and Deposition | The processes by which rock particles are moved |
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
Create a visual representation of the rock cycle.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Use scenes, shapes, arrows, and textables to create a visual representation of the rock cycle.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient 50 Points | Emerging 25 Points | Beginning 0 Points | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arrows and Labels | All the main processes are labeled and have arrows showing the movement of rocks or rock particles. | Most of the main processes are labeled and have arrows showing the movement of rocks or rock particles. | Some of the main process are labeled and have arrows showing the movement of rocks or rock particles. |
| 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
The rock cycle is a group of processes that continually recycles rocks. These processes occur over millions of years, but not all the processes happen at the same rate. There are three main types of rocks that appear during the cycle sedimentary, igneous, and metamorphic. In this activity, students will create a rock cycle diagram. To stretch more advanced students, encourage them to explain each process in short detail either by adding a description to the storyboard or an additional textable. Alternatively, support students who need more help by giving them a list of processes and having them label a scene.
Rock Cycle Processes
| Process | Description |
|---|---|
| Sedimentation | The process where layers of rock particles build up |
| Compaction and Cementation | The process where the layers of sediment are compressed and stuck together |
| Heat and Pressure | The process that can change sedimentary rock into metamorphic rock |
| Melting | The process which can form igneous rock, where solid rocks are turned to molten rock |
| Uplift | The process where rocks are pushed upwards by the pressure of rocks forming underneath |
| Weathering | The process by which large rocks are broken down into smaller parts |
| Erosion, Transportation, and Deposition | The processes by which rock particles are moved |
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
Create a visual representation of the rock cycle.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Use scenes, shapes, arrows, and textables to create a visual representation of the rock cycle.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient 50 Points | Emerging 25 Points | Beginning 0 Points | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arrows and Labels | All the main processes are labeled and have arrows showing the movement of rocks or rock particles. | Most of the main processes are labeled and have arrows showing the movement of rocks or rock particles. | Some of the main process are labeled and have arrows showing the movement of rocks or rock particles. |
| 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 Create a Diagram of the Rock Cycle
Engage students with a hands-on rock cycle demonstration using common classroom materials
Capture students' attention by connecting the rock cycle to a tangible, memorable experiment they can see and touch. This approach reinforces key concepts and helps diverse learners grasp how rocks change over time.
Gather simple materials like crayons, aluminum foil, a plastic knife, and a heat source
Use familiar items to model sedimentary, metamorphic, and igneous processes. This minimizes prep time and ensures every student can participate regardless of classroom resources.
Demonstrate weathering by shaving crayons into small pieces
Show how rocks break down as you create “sediment” by shaving crayons. Discuss how weathering turns large rocks into smaller particles just like in nature.
Layer the crayon shavings and press them between foil to show compaction and cementation
Help students observe sedimentary rock formation by pressing layers together. Point out how pressure causes loose particles to stick and form new rocks.
Apply gentle heat to the crayon layers to mimic metamorphic changes
Simulate the rock cycle’s heat and pressure by carefully warming the foil packet. Guide students to notice texture and color changes that represent metamorphic rocks.
Melt the crayon pieces completely to illustrate igneous rock formation
Demonstrate how rocks melt and cool by fully melting the crayons in foil and letting them harden. Explain how this models magma cooling into igneous rock.
Frequently Asked Questions about Create a Diagram of the Rock Cycle
What is the rock cycle and how does it work?
The rock cycle is a continuous process where rocks transform between three main types: sedimentary, igneous, and metamorphic. It involves natural processes like weathering, erosion, melting, and pressure that recycle rocks over millions of years.
How can I create a simple rock cycle diagram for my class?
To make a simple rock cycle diagram, use shapes and arrows to show how sedimentary, igneous, and metamorphic rocks change through processes like melting, pressure, and erosion. Label each part and add brief descriptions for clarity.
What are the main processes in the rock cycle?
The main rock cycle processes include sedimentation, compaction and cementation, heat and pressure, melting, uplift, weathering, and erosion, transportation, and deposition.
What is the difference between sedimentary, igneous, and metamorphic rocks?
Sedimentary rocks form from layers of particles, igneous rocks form when molten rock cools, and metamorphic rocks result when existing rocks change due to heat and pressure.
How can I support students at different learning levels with a rock cycle activity?
Support advanced students by having them write short descriptions for each process. For those needing help, provide a list of processes for labeling. Use visuals and group work to make the lesson accessible for all learners.
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