Weathering, Erosion, and Deposition Lab Activity

This kit provides students with the opportunity to make firsthand observations of mechanical weathering, chemical weathering, erosion, and deposition.

• Materials and instructions for five activities and 10 lab groups
• Students explore Framework Science Standard ESS3
• Kit explains why rocks change in size and shape over time
• Teacher's guide included
• Topics include weathering, erosion, and deposition
• Aligned to NGSS standards (MS/HS: ESS2)

During this lab, students simulate mechanical weathering by abrasion; simulate weathering caused by frost wedging, thermal expansion, contraction, and biotic agents; simulate chemical weathering; and observe the effects of weathering and erosion in various types of rocks over time. The students' understanding of these exercises will allow them to compare data and analyze their results to gain knowledge of weathering, erosion, and deposition. Students also explore Framework Science Standard ESS3: Earth's Systems.

Pre and post-laboratory assessments and vocabulary words all target specific Science and Engineering Practices and common core standards. The teacher's guide also contains specific "Did You Know" concepts. A student copy master is also included. This kit provides most of the materials needed for 10 lab groups. Unless otherwise noted, groups of two-to-four students are recommended. The length of each activity varies, ranging from one class period to several class periods over the course of a semester.

The kit is also available for purchase with a link to a NewPath digital lesson, which includes a variety of resources on the topic, including background information, illustrations and self-assessments.

Certifications: aligned with all published National Standards.

Ordering information: This kit includes 2 meter tapes, 10 medicine cups with lids, 30 plastic cups (4 oz.), 4 spikes, pinto beans, 50 mL of plastic containers with lids, Epsom salt, 2 balls, 60 sandstone samples, 60 limestone samples, 60 shale samples, 8 mesh bags, 6 thermometers, 2 stopwatches, 1 roll of masking tape, 500 mL HCI (6 m), 1 vial of pH paper strips, 1 skein yarn, 20 washers, 1 dropper, 1 package of straws, 1 package of rubber bands, 1 package of balloons, a teacher's guide, and a student guide.

One labeled storage container for each type of rock, water, graduated cylinders, balances, large beakers, test tubes or more large bowls, forceps, paper towels, permanent markers, scissors, stirring rods, freezer, and hammer are needed but not included.