Language and Content

Success in Science and Mathematics

Learn About Measurement

Observation Log
OBSERVE

OBSERVE

round

long

big

little

rough

smooth

Measure

Measure

The weight of the rock is 8 ounces.

16 ounces = 1 pound 2,000 pounds = 1 ton

scale

Compare

Compare

heavy

light

Read the instructions. Then do the activity.

Be a Scientist: Study Rocks

  • • You will need: different kinds of rocks, a scale, a notebook, and a pencil

    Activity Steps

  • 1 observe

    Make an observation log. Assign each rock a letter to identify it. Study the rocks. Take notes in the log about how each rock looks and feels.

    Photograph of four rocks on a table labeled A-D

  • 2 Measure

    Weigh each rock. Write the weights in your log.

    Illustration of an observation log to show the properties of each rock

  • 3 Compare

    How are the rocks alike? How are they different? Find out which rocks are the lightest. Find out which are the heaviest.

  • 4 Sort

    Put the rocks in groups, or categories. Is each rock heavy or light? Is it rough or smooth?

Think it Over

  • 1. Is a big rock always heavier than a small one? Explain what you learned.

  • 2. Where do you see different types of rocks in nature? How are they different?