Fourth graders smash geodes

In their science geology unit, fourth graders learned how the three main kinds of rocks are formed, and the physical changes they undergo in the rock cycle. They learned what makes a mineral a mineral and how minerals combine to form rocks. And they put their scientific skills to use, identifying various rocks and minerals by observing and testing for things such as transparency, luster, streak, hardness, magnetism, and acid reaction. Their unit wrapped up with using hammers to break open geodes to expose the beautiful, hidden crystal formations inside!