For children in Grade 4 learning about the Earth and space systems 

From the Curriculum:

The study of rocks and minerals introduces students to the science of geology. By examining different types of rocks and minerals found in the earth’s crust, students will learn that the unique characteristics and properties of rocks and minerals are a result of how they were formed. Such properties determine possible uses

Big Ideas:

• Rocks and minerals have unique characteristics and properties that are a result of how they were formed.
• The properties of rocks and minerals determine society’s possible uses for them.
• Our use of rocks and minerals affects the environment.