The Rock Cycle

We have been studying rocks in Science.  I found a really cool demonstration that shows how sedimentary rocks turn into metamorphic rocks and how metamorphic rocks turn into igneous rocks.  Here are the results:

We start with crayon shavings.  These demonstrate how wind and water can wear away pieces of earth and rock.  They are washed away and settle on the bottoms of oceans, rivers, and lakes.  The layers are deposited on top of each other and pressed down over time.  They eventually turn into sedimentary rock. 

Next, tons of pressure causes heat to build up, which in turn causes the rocks (crayon shavings) to "morph" into a new type of rock:  metamorphic rock.  This is demonstrated by pressing the crayon shavings together until they are flattened and take on a new form.

The final stage demonstrates how metamorphic rock is turned into igneous rock.  The crayon shavings are heated and cooled.  The students were able to get a good idea of how rocks can take on a different look and feel once heat is applied.

If I would have thought about it soon enough, I would have taken the igneous rock and grated it with a cheese grater or something to demonstrate how igneous rock can turn into sedimentary rock again. 

You can find the complete instructions for this rock demonstration at http://www.ehow.com/info_7893274_elementary-rock-cycle-experiments.html#ixzz1oddX8AEw.