4th Grade Writing to Learn
Science Core Standard III: Students will understand the basic properties of
rocks, the processes involved in the formation of soils, and the needs of plants
provided by soil.
Objective 1: Identify basic properties of minerals and rocks.
Vocabulary
To activate or
build prior
knowledge
Purpose
Writing Strategy Application
Science Journal
Quick Jot: If you have a rock collection, what kinds of rocks
do you have? If you don’t have a rock collection, what do
you know about rocks? You have three minutes to write.
Science Journal
Students record the definitions of the basic properties of
minerals using Structured Notes.
Refer to periodic Table of Elements as a reference to
elements that combine to make minerals.
Students Jot then Sketch elements which combine to make
certain minerals.
Acquire mineral sample boxes.
Students create Word Maps to record information about
specific mineral samples.
Students create a Sequence Graphic Organizer during class
discussion to illustrate the rock cycle.
UEN Website
www.schools.utah.gov/curr/science/core/4th/sciber4/
Click on Rocks and Soils icon for lesson plans on igneous,
metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks and the rock cycle.
Students view samples and visuals from website cited
above to record Structured Notes and Word Maps on the
three categories of rocks and types of rocks in each
category.
Paragraph Frame: Students describe the rock cycle.
Science Journal
Science Journal
To build knowledge
mineral, sedimentary, igneous, metamorphic
Science Journal
Science Journal
Science Journal
Science Journal
Tri-fold List Graphic Organizer: Students tri-fold a piece of
paper and label sections: igneous, metamorphic,
sedimentary. Students list 3-4 types of rocks found in Utah
in each category.
DSD Writing Committee, KKlinker & SKagie.2011.
To create a written
product that
demonstrates mastery
and understanding.
Formal
Essay question on post- test.
Question: Describe the rock cycle in paragraph or graphic
form. Include the following vocabulary words: igneous,
sedimentary, metamorphic.
DSD Writing Committee, KKlinker & SKagie.2011.