Natural Earth Materials: Rocks, Soil and Water SCI.K.7C Give examples of ways rocks, soil, and water are useful. Objective Students will be observe and record examples of ways earth materials are useful. Engage As a whole group, create a list of natural Earth materials, including rocks, soil and water. Brainstorm and share ideas of ways people use rocks, soil and water around their home. Record students’ responses on a class chart. How Do People Use Natural Earth Materials? Rocks Soil Water Build fences, Growing Watering garden, Flower beds plants Washing the car, Brushing your teeth Explore • Take students on a walking field investigation to observe the school grounds. • Review the three Earth materials they have been studying: rocks, soil, and water. • Tell them that they are going on a scavenger hunt to see if (and how) these three materials are being used around the school grounds. • During the walk, encourage students to share their thoughts with a partner. • They may notice Earth materials being used in the following ways. - water hose to water plants or wash the sidewalk - brick wall made out of Earth materials - mulch and soil in the garden - water fountain - rocks and gravel in the sidewalk • Upon returning to the classroom, discuss the places the students saw Earth material used. Record student responses on class chart. Elaborate • Ask each student to draw pictures showing ways water, soil, and rocks are used. Compile the drawings into a class book depicting uses of Earth materials. • Create a class bulletin board to display pictures of natural Earth materials being used by people. Evaluate Place a rock, some soil, and a cup of water on the table. Assess students’ understanding of natural Earth materials by asking each student to verbally explain how humans use these materials. Alternately, have students use the chart below to draw ways each material is used by humans. Natural Earth Materials (Draw a picture describing how each Earth material might be used by humans.) Rocks Soil Water .