Rocks Database Lesson Plan
Collect sample of rocks, categorize them and store in a database
Activity
1. Discuss with the class about the various different types of rock. Use example pictures to illustrate what they look like. For example, quartz, granite.
2. Ask the students what types of rock they already know about from their own learning or collections.
3. Explain how they are going to collect rocks from the local area for examination and classification in class.
4. List the following heading on the board and have students copy them into their notebooks: Location found, basic description.
5. Divide the class into pairs or small groups and send them out into the local area to collect a selection of different rocks.
6. As they collect the rocks, have the students list them in their notebooks.
7. Upon returning to the classroom, use a book or website about rocks, classify them into their different types.
8. Start a computer and load a database program such as Access, Clarisworks, FileMaker or MS Works.
9. Define the fields needed to store important information. For example, Type, Description, Location found, Image/Photo
10. Start to enter the data for each specimen.
11. Scan a picture or take a digital photograph of each rock.
12. Import it into an Image/Photograph field for each rock's record.
13. Sort the records based upon alphabetical order or rock types.
14. Save the file as "Group ......... - rock collection".
15. The information can then be used on the computer as a comparison file for future rock collections our printed out to make a classroom reference book.
Materials
Rocks, notebook, pen, pencil database software, digital camera, scanner
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