Rock Type Identification

This worksheet helps students in Grades 4, 5, and 6 build foundational Earth science knowledge by identifying rock types based on detailed formation clues. Using descriptions from a “Rock Museum Exhibit,” learners practice close reading, scientific reasoning, and classification as they determine whether each rock is igneous, sedimentary, or metamorphic.

Academic Focus

• Rock Classification (Grades 4-6) – Students classify rocks using formation processes such as cooling, compaction, heat, and pressure.
• Interpreting Geological Descriptions – Learners analyze clues about texture, crystal size, layering, and environmental conditions.
• Scientific Vocabulary Application – Reinforces key Earth science terms related to rock formation and properties.
• Close Reading Skills – Students extract relevant information from descriptive scientific text.

Instructional Benefits

• Teacher-Created Resource – Designed by educators to align with upper-elementary Earth science standards.
• Engaging Museum Theme – The exhibit-style format increases interest and supports comprehension.
• Clear Classification Task – Simple I, S, or M labeling allows focus on reasoning rather than writing length.
• Flexible Classroom Use – Ideal for independent practice, partner work, science notebooks, review, or assessment.

This rock type identification worksheet strengthens students’ understanding of how igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks form under different conditions. By classifying rocks based on descriptive clues, students improve science literacy, vocabulary usage, and analytical thinking. Whether used in a classroom or homeschool setting, this printable resource provides meaningful, low-prep practice that supports long-term understanding of Earth materials and geological processes.

This worksheet is part of our The Rock Cycle Worksheets Collection.