6th Grade Science Unit 4
Minerals
5 Instructional Days - 2nd 6 Weeks
Hyperlinks are for content teachers
Big Idea:
Minerals have physical properties that can be used for classification.
Student Expectations:
Priority TEKS
6.6 (C) Test the physical properties of minerals, including hardness, color, luster, and streak.
Ongoing TEKS
6.1A [Process Standard] Demonstrate safe practices during laboratory and field investigations as outlined in TEA approved safety standards.
6.2A [Process Standard] Plan and implement comparative and descriptive investigations by making observations, asking well-defined questions, and using appropriate equipment and technology.
6.2D [Process Standard] Construct tables and graphs, using repeated trials and means, to organize data and identify patterns.
6.3A [Process Standard] In all fields of science, analyze, evaluate, and critique scientific explanations by using empirical evidence, logical reasoning, and experimental and observational testing, including examining all sides of scientific evidence of those scientific explanations, so as to encourage critical thinking by the student.
6.3D [Process Standard] Relate the impact of research on scientific thought and society, including the history of science and contributions of scientists as related to the content.
6.4A [Process Standard] Use appropriate tools , including journals/notebooks, beakers, Petri dishes, meter sticks, graduated cylinders, hot plates, test tubes, balances, microscopes, thermometers, calculators, computers, timing devices, and other necessary equipment to collect, record, and analyze information.
Student Learning Targets:
- I will test the physical properties of minerals.
- Writing: I will explain the process of identifying a mineral through the use of its physical properties.
Essential Questions:
- What are minerals and the properties that make them similar?
- What is the difference between the color mineral test and the streak mineral test?
- How do you test a mineral for hardness?
Extra Information:
Adopted Textbook: Accelerate Learning, STEMScopes
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