TEKS Addressed: 6.1A, 6.1B, 6.2A, 6.2C, 6.2D, 6.2E, 6.3A, 6.3B, 6.3C, 6.3D, 6.4A, 6.4B, 6.5B, 6.10A, 6.10B

Introduction

This unit bundles Student Expectations that address the structure of the Earth and the classification of rocks by the process of their formation.

Prior to this Unit

• Grade 3

  • 3.7A – Explore and record how soils are formed by weathering of rock and the decomposition of plant and animal remains.

• Grade 4

  • 4.7B – Observe and identify slow changes to Earth's surface caused by weathering, erosion, and deposition from water, wind, and ice.

• Grade 5

  • 5.7A – Explore the processes that led to the formation of sedimentary rocks and fossil fuels.

• Grade 6

  • 6.5A – Know that an element is a pure substance represented by a chemical symbol and that a compound is a pure substance represented by a chemical formula.

During this Unit

Students construct a model to illustrate the structural layers of the Earth and identify the advantages and limitations of their models. Students use scientific practices and a variety of tools to investigate and classify rocks as metamorphic, igneous, or sedimentary by the processes of their formation within the rock cycle. Additionally, students communicate and discuss their observations and record and organize data in their notebooks. Furthermore, students analyze and interpret information to construct reasonable explanations based on evidence from their investigations and communicate valid conclusions (supported by collected data). Students continue to demonstrate safe practices as outlined in Texas Education Agency-approved safety standards and consider environmentally appropriate and ethical practices with resources during investigations.

After this Unit

In Grade 8, students will study the historical development of plate tectonics, relate plate tectonics to the formation of crustal features, and interpret topographic maps and satellite vies to identify land and erosional features and predict how these features may be reshaped by weathering.