Rocks and minerals are more than just things that lie in the ground. Yes, they help form our planet, but people also use them to create things that make our lives easier. In this Adventure, you’ll dig into the world of rocks and minerals and discover some surprises about the science of geology — like how the ground beneath your feet is constantly on the move.
Safety MomentPrior to any activity, use Scouting America SAFE Checklist to ensure the safety of all those involved.
All participants in official Scouting America activities should become familiar with the Guide to Safe Scouting and applicable program literature or manuals.
Be aware of state or local government regulations that supersede Scouting America practices, policies, and guidelines.
To assist in the safe delivery of the program you may find specific safety items that are related to requirements for the Adventure.
Before starting any experiments in this Adventure:
During the Adventure:
Examine the three types of rocks, sedimentary, igneous, and metamorphic.
Find a rock, safely break it apart and examine it.
Make a mineral test kit and test minerals according to the Mohs scale of mineral hardness. Using the rock cycle chart or one like it, discuss how hardness determines which materials can be used in homes, in landscapes, or for recreation.
Grow a crystal.
Examine the three types of rocks, sedimentary, igneous, and metamorphic.
Using crayons to recreate the formation process of igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks.
Cub Scouts learn the three types of rocks and how to identify them.
Invite a Rockhound or geologist to a den meeting.
Cub Scouts hunt for rocks to identify and categorize.
Find a rock, safely break it apart and examine it.
Choose one of the following:
Cub Scouts break apart a geode and examine.
Make a mineral test kit and test minerals according to the Mohs scale of mineral hardness. Using the rock cycle chart or one like it, discuss how hardness determines which materials can be used in homes, in landscapes, or for recreation.
Cub Scout study and share observation of the mineral test.
Grow a crystal.
Cub Scouts create their own crystal that they can eat.
