Rock Cycle

Instructions

1. Play the Rock Cycle Role-Playing Game. 
2. Answer the Conclusion Questions.

10

Introduction:
As you have no doubt figured out by now, the processes involved in rock formation are cyclical - that is, any one atom may be involved in every single stage of the rock-forming process. On average, the transition from one part of the cycle to another can take anywhere from 200,000 years to many MILLIONS of years! In this activity, you are going to "ROLL-PLAY" a ROCK and see where you go in the rock cycle.

Procedure:
1. Copy from "Start" to "20." and paste into "type a response" area so you can just fill it in.
2. Write the station you are starting at in the "Start:" line.
3. Roll the die at your station. Record the result for "1. " Move to the station indicated.
4. Repeat this process until you have rolled 20 times and record exactly what each roll says on each number below. (even if it says "stay where you are")

Start: _
1. _______
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.

1

As which kind of rock did you spend most of your time?

1

Why is the rock cycle called a cycle?

1

Which process always occurred before an igneous rock formed?

1

Which 2 processes can occur before a sedimentary rock formed?

1

Which process always occurred before a metamorphic rock formed?

1

Which 3 can happen to igneous rock?

1

Which process can happen to sedimentary rock?

1

Which 2 can happen to metamorphic rock?

1

In real life, about how long would a rock actually take to move from one station to the other?

(Hint - answer is found in the introduction text)

1

These rocks:

Understanding the Rock Cycle

Have you ever wondered how rocks are formed and change over time? Well, the answer lies in a fascinating process known as the rock cycle. The rock cycle describes the continuous journey that rocks undergo, transforming from one type to another. Let's delve deeper into this captivating natural phenomenon!

The rock cycle begins with igneous rocks, which form when molten magma or lava cools and hardens. These rocks can be found near volcanic regions and have a crystalline texture. Over time, these igneous rocks may experience weathering and erosion due to wind, water, or ice. This weathering breaks down the rocks into smaller pieces known as sediments.

The next stage in the rock cycle is called sedimentation. These sediments are transported by natural forces and settle in layers, eventually compacting over time. This compaction results in the formation of sedimentary rocks. Sedimentary rocks can contain fossils, giving us a glimpse into Earth's ancient history.

As pressure and heat increase deep within the Earth's crust, sedimentary rocks can undergo a remarkable transformation. This metamorphosis leads to the formation of metamorphic rocks. The intense heat and pressure cause the minerals within the rocks to rearrange, resulting in new textures and, often, beautiful patterns.

However, the rock cycle doesn't end there! Through various geological processes, such as melting, magma can once again be formed from any type of rock. This magma can rise to the Earth's surface and cool quickly, forming new igneous rocks. And just like that, the rock cycle repeats, continuing its never-ending journey.

Understanding the rock cycle is crucial because it allows us to unravel Earth's history by examining the different types of rocks present in different regions. It also helps us comprehend how Earth's surface is constantly changing over time.

In conclusion, the rock cycle is a remarkable natural process that illustrates the dynamic and ever-changing nature of our planet. From the creation of igneous rocks through cooling molten lava to the transformation of sedimentary rocks through compaction and metamorphism, the rock cycle offers a glimpse into Earth's geological history. Keep exploring the rock cycle, and unveil the secrets locked within the rocks beneath our feet!

1

Which process breaks down rocks into smaller pieces?

1

Which type of rock is formed by cooling and solidification of magma or lava?

1

Which process transforms existing rocks into new rocks with lots of heat and pressure?

1

Match the process with the temperature point:

Draggable item		Corresponding Item
Rock changes from solid to liquid		Melting point is reached
Rock changes from liquid to solid		Freezing point is reached

1

The rock cycle is a continuous process that transforms rocks from one type to another.

1

Sedimentary rocks are formed when particles of other rocks or the remains of plants and animals are pressed and cemented together.

1

Which of the following is an example of IGNEOUS rock?

1

Which of the following is an example of METAMORPHIC rock?

1

As which kind of rock did you spend most of your time?

Why is the rock cycle called a cycle?

Which process always occurred before an igneous rock formed?

Which 2 processes can occur before a sedimentary rock formed?

Which process always occurred before a metamorphic rock formed?

Which 3 can happen to igneous rock?

Which process can happen to sedimentary rock?

Which 2 can happen to metamorphic rock?

In real life, about how long would a rock actually take to move from one station to the other?(Hint - answer is found in the introduction text)

These rocks:

Which process breaks down rocks into smaller pieces?

Which type of rock is formed by cooling and solidification of magma or lava?

Which process transforms existing rocks into new rocks with lots of heat and pressure?

Match the process with the temperature point:

The rock cycle is a continuous process that transforms rocks from one type to another.

Sedimentary rocks are formed when particles of other rocks or the remains of plants and animals are pressed and cemented together.

Which of the following is an example of IGNEOUS rock?

Which of the following is an example of METAMORPHIC rock?

Which type of rock often contains FOSSILS?

In real life, about how long would a rock actually take to move from one station to the other?

(Hint - answer is found in the introduction text)