If you need a technical summary of igneous rock classification, then this resource is worth checking out. It has several different diagrams to help you visualize the classification process.

Click for different identification keys for igneous rocks to help you classify them correctly. Includes various color/texture keys as well as classification charts. (NOTE: At the time of writing this, the PDF links were configured...

Ask GeoMan lists Olivine, Pyroxene, Amphibole, Feldspar, Mica and Quartz, as five common rock forming minerals. Characteristics of each are also given.

The minerals that make up igneous rocks crystallize at a range of different temperatures. The sequence in which minerals crystallize from magma is known as the Bowen reaction series. An explanation of the reaction series is provided...

This interactive resource adapted from the National Park Service illustrates the variety of landforms and features created by volcanoes. Featured are calderas, craters, fumaroles and other geothermal features, igneous rocks, lava flows,...

Students use chocolate in this activity to model sedimentary, metamorphic, and igneous rocks, mimicking what happens during transformations in the rock cycle.

Students use their knowledge of the rock cycle to write a story about a pet rock. The story must include the rock changing from magma, to each type of rock igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic. The story should end with the pet rock...

A suite of lessons focusing on finding the fossil evidence for lithospheric plate tectonics. Inquiry-based exploration of plate tectonics evidence includes fossil distribution, earthquakes, and volcanoes.

Looking for more information about plate tectonics and what happens at plate boundaries? This site gives definitions of all plate boundaries as well as animations to help visualize what is happening.

Instructional module focusing on the rock cycle. Discussion includes the concept of uniformitarianism and how earth materials change from one form to another. The site also includes an interactive practice quiz and links relating to the...

The rock cycle consists of igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks. This lesson will focus on metamorphic rocks and how they form. This lesson plan was created as a result of the Girls Engaged in Math and Science, GEMS Project funded...

Information on architectural granite quarrying and uses.

Describes the characteristics of granite, how it is formed, its chemical composition, where it is found, how it is used, and some facts about granite.

Olivine-bearing rocks, similar to those found in Hawaii, have been found on Mars. Use this site to learn more about what has been found on Mars.

Describes the three different types of rocks and provides a diagram showing where they fit into the rock cycle.