Rock Star

Division: A- Elementary School

NC Essential Standards Alignment: 3.E. 2, 4.P.2

Event Rules: See 2023 Division A Rule Manual

Clarifications: In the rock chart of the rules, Schist (the rock) should be placed on the left side. Mica (the mineral) should be on the right side.

Mica Schist is a type of rock but only DivC would ever make this distinction.

Description:

Teams will demonstrate their knowledge of rocks, minerals & the rock cycle.

Materials:

Must bring writing instruments. Teams may bring 2 hand lenses and one 3-ring, 1” binder containing information in any form from any source. The materials must be 3-hole punched and inserted into the rings (sheet protectors are allowed). No actual samples may be used in the binder, but photographs and drawings are allowed.

Scoring:

High score wins. Predetermined questions will be used to break ties.

Recommendations:

Create a notebook to study from. Have one page for each rock or mineral on the Official List.

Event Resources:

Coaches Guide to Rocks & Minerals
Types of Rocks
Mineral Information Institute (Great website with lesson plans, student help, information, pictures, and more)
University of Texas Geology (introduction and explanation of mineral properties)
Request a NC Rock & Mineral Kit
Geologic Maps
Rocks for Kids
NASA – Rocking the Rock Cycle
Chocolate Rock Cycle Lab See the event help page for the Middle and High School version of this event

Rocks, Minerals & Precious Stones

Media:

None