Rocks and fossils
Learn about real-world examples of sedimentary, igneous, and metamorphic rocks and fossils, plus learn how each rock type is formed.
5 resources
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How can I use this with my class?
Pupils become detectives as they explore and classify rocks and fossils and relate properties to uses. They learn about the life story of fossil hunter, Mary Anning. In the real-world challenge they meet a range of rock scientists and through practical experiments, help a real petrologist investigate the porosity and permeability of rocks. The careers content showcases the petrologist at work and inspires potential careers.
See all of the resources available and how to use this collection by downloading the Collection overview.
Essential science
A series of lessons that will get you started…
The rock cycle
Explore the rock cycle, the the formation of igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks and discover some of their features.
2 resources
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Identifying and grouping rocks
Explore group rocks according to their type, minerals, properties and uses with this virtual rock kit and quiz.
3 resources
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Rock properties
Explore different rock properties and learn about varying scientific methodologies and practices.
2 resources
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Be a fossil detective
Become a fossil detective exploring animal adaptations and make suggestions about how they lived.
5 resources
View LessonReal-world challenge
Put learning to the test with a real-world application of knowledge…
Be a rock detective challenge
Learn about rock types, explore their properties, and discover careers related to rocks.
6 resources
View LessonCareer connection
Discover real careers linked to this subject…
Meet a petrologist presentation
Use this presentation to inspire your pupils to think about a potential future career and link learning about rocks to the real-world.
Meet a petrologist job card
Inspire your pupils to think about a future career and link learning about rocks to the real-world, with this job-role card.
Meet a petrologist video
Watch Marli, a mineral resources petrologist (who studies rocks) at work and find out about the knowledge and skills she needs for success.
Meet a palaeontologist presentation
Use this presentation to inspire your pupils to think about a potential future career and link learning about rocks and fossils to the real-world.
Meet a palaeontologist job card
Inspire your pupils to think about a future career and link learning about rocks and fossils to the real-world, with this job-role card.