Chapter 3
Minerals, Rocks, and Structures
| Section |
Learning Outcomes |
| Section 1 |
- Define the term “mineral” in your own words.
- Evaluate the usefulness of various physical properties for describing and identifying different minerals.
- Explore how mineral crystals are constructed and how the external form of a crystal reflects its ionic structure.
- Identify a variety of mineral specimens according to their physical properties.
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| Section 2 |
- Identify and classify several igneous rocks using a rock chart.
- Describe how the two main types of igneous rocks form.
- Determine that igneous rocks are classified based on how they form.
- Use a geologic map and legend to search for evidence of past igneous rock formation.
- Recognize that classification helps scientists organize the natural world into smaller, workable components.
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| Section 3 |
- Identify and classify several sedimentary rocks.
- Describe how the three main types of sedimentary rocks form.
- Determine that sedimentary rocks are divided into groups based on how they form.
- Infer the environment in which sediment was deposited when you are given a sedimentary rock.
- Recognize that classification helps scientists organize the natural world into smaller, workable components.
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Section 4 |
- Identify and classify several metamorphic rocks using a rock chart.
- Describe two agents of metamorphism.
- Use a geologic map to search for evidence of past metamorphism in your community.
- Recognize that properties of materials can change over time.
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Section 5 |
- Recognize that rocks are arranged in Earth’s crust as well-defined bodies or units.
- Identify the general shapes of rock units based on rock type.
- Read and interpret geologic maps and geologic cross sections.
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Section 6 |
- Describe the relationship between fault movement and the forces that cause this motion.
- Understand that Earth movements can create faults and folds.
- Understand that models help scientists understand how things work.
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Section 7 |
- Understand the basic principles used to determine the relative ages of rock units.
- Understand the nature and significance of unconformities and their role in deciphering geologic history.
- Interpret the geologic history of an area using the basic geologic principles.
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Section 8 |
- Determine the ages of the rocks of the United States.
- Understand the general geology of the United States.
- Examine the major physiographic provinces in the United States.
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