Download Rocks, Minerals, and Fossils

Unit Curriculum Map for:
3rd Grade Science
Cook County Schools
Unit: Rocks, Soils, and Fossils
# of Days: 30 (3rd Six Weeks)
Key Concept(s)
Rocks, Minerals, and Fossils
Standards/Elements
S3E1: a, b, c, d; S3E2: a, b
Unit Essential Questions
How can observation, measurement, and simple tests help to identify the physical attributes of
rocks and minerals?
How can I compare and contrast the different types of soils?
How do water and wind change rocks and soils over time?
How can we learn by investigating fossils and how they are formed?
Content
 Rocks
 Minerals
 Fossils
 Soils
Key Terms/Vocabulary – “Language of the Standard/Elements”
Rock
Physical Property
Mineral
Clay
Weathering
Loam
Erosion
Soil
Attribute
Sand
Absorption
Humus
Texture
Fossil
Streak
Imprint
Hardness
Extinct
Observe
Preserved
Shape
Decay
Color
Cast
Size
Mold
Smell
Skills
 Explain the difference between rocks and minerals.
 Recognize the physical attributes of rocks and minerals.
 Compare and contrast top soils.
 Determine how water and wind change rocks and soils over time.
 Investigate fossils
 Describe how fossils are formed.
Assessment(s)
Venn Diagram to illustrate the similarities and differences between rocks and minerals
“My Rock Report” Booklet
“How Do Soils Differ” worksheet
“What are Fossils” worksheet
Benchmark Assessment