Weathering: Where Does Sand Come From?

Summary

Grade Range

4th

Group Size

2 students

Active Time

60 minutes

Total Time

60 minutes

Area of Science

Geology

Key Concepts

Weathering, rocks, forces of nature

Credits

Sabine De Brabandere, PhD, Science Buddies

Sandra Slutz, PhD, Science Buddies

Video narration by Jennifer E Paz

Pricing

Free for a limited time thanks to individual donors

Overview

In this lesson, students explore weathering—the wearing away of rock by exposure to the elements. They learn how it creates smooth boulders, rounded pebbles, sinkholes to swim in, and caves to explore. In the activity, they explore the connection between weathering and sand using sugar cubes.

Learning Objectives

• Investigate how forces of nature contribute to the weathering of rock.
• Explain what weathering is and how it occurs.

Materials

Per group:

• Sugar cubes (4)
• Dark colored paper
• Transparent cup
• Tray
• Dropper
• Water

Per student:

• Weathering worksheet