How to Make a Rock Cycle Model

Igneous rock forms when hot, liquid magma cools and hardens.

According to author David M. Thompson, the precursor to all rock is magma. Once magma rises to the Earth's surface it is referred to as lava. When lava cools off, it hardens into rock. Rocks are categorized into three types: igneous, sedimentary and metamorphic. Rocks and minerals are created, transformed and destroyed through a series of processes referred to as the rock cycle. Create a model of the rock cycle as a school project or simply as a science craft at home.

Things You'll Need

• Rock samples
• Sturdy cardboard
• Hot glue gun
• Glue sticks
• Permanent markers

Instructions

Gather Rock Samples

1. 

   Granite is an igneous rock used in construction and landscaping.

   Obtain three to five small samples of igneous rock from a school supply store or local craft store. Igneous rocks are formed when hot, liquid magma cools and hardens. Purchase samples such as obsidian, pumice or granite.

2. 

   Sandstone is known for its beauty and is used for countertops and tiles.

   Purchase three to five small samples of sedimentary rock. Sedimentary rock forms when rocks and minerals are broken down in a process called weathering. Layers are formed when weathered rock and plant and animal remains are pressed together over time. Gather samples such as breccia, sandstone or shale.

3. 

   Gneiss is metamorphic rock that is used as decorative stone.

   Pick out three to five metamorphic rock samples. Metamorphic rock forms when heat and pressure are applied to igneous or sedimentary rock, causing changes in shape and appearance. Buy samples such as gneiss, marble or slate.

Assemble the Model

1. Cut an 18-inch by 18-inch square out of the side of a sturdy cardboard box. Lightly trace a large circle onto the square. Use a ruler and a pencil to divide the circle into 10 equal sections.

2. Write the word "magma" in the top, middle section of the circle using a black permanent marker. Move in a counterclockwise fashion as you put together your rock cycle model. Draw a curved arrow that points to the next section of the circle.

3. Label the second section of the circle with the word "crystallization" with a colored marker. Label the third section "igneous rock," using a black marker. Use a hot glue gun to attach the igneous rocks that you have chosen for the display.

4. Title the fourth section "weathering, erosion and deposition." Write "sediment" with a black marker in the fifth section. Use a colored marker to write "compaction and cementation" in the sixth section. Glue the sedimentary rocks onto the seventh section and label it "sedimentary rock" at the top with a black marker.

5. Write the words "heat and pressure," using a colored marker, at the top of the eighth section. Label the ninth section "metamorphic rock," using a black marker and glue the metamorphic rock samples onto this section. Use a colored marker to write the word "melting" in the tenth and final section. Use a black marker to draw short curved arrows to connect each section of the rock cycle model.

References

• "Processes that Shape the Earth"; David M. Thompson; 2007
• "Learning About Rocks, Weathering and Erosion with Graphic Organizers"; Diana Estigarribia; 2005
• Teacher Vision: Making a Model of the Rock Cycle

Resources

• Interactives: Rock Cycle