Rock Types Worksheet

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In this worksheet, students will explore the fact that rocks are very important and contain many minerals, as well as the fact that there are many different types of rock.

Key stage: KS 3

Curriculum topic: Chemistry: Earth and Atmosphere

Curriculum subtopic: Rock Cycle and Formation

Difficulty level:

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Worksheet Overview

Most rocks are a mixture of many different minerals and contain naturally occurring compounds. There are THREE main types of rock.

Sedimentary Rock

Sedimentary rocks are usually quite soft and crumbly, this is because they are made of grains that are stuck together. They are formed in layers when sediment is deposited. Shown below are two examples of sedimentary rocks.


sandstone	limestone

Metamorphic Rock

Metamorphic rocks are usually hard, smooth and shiny and may have layers of crystals that give them a glittery appearance. They are made of interlocking crystals which are formed when rock is changed by high amounts of pressure and heat.


slate	marble

Igneous Rock

Igneous rocks are very hard and similar to metamorphic rock, are formed by interlocking crystals. They are formed when molten rock cools and solidifies. The size of the crystals depends on the rate of cooling.


granite	basalt

Use this activity to test your knowledge of rocks and how they are formed.

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