#824. edible metamorphic rocks

Science, level: all
Posted Thu Jan 28 12:42:02 PST 1999 by Adrienne Somera (asomera@mtbaker.wedned.edu).
Mt baker Jr. High, Deming, Washington
Materials Required: 3 different colored starburst candies for each student
Activity Time: 5-10 minutes
Concepts Taught: Metamorphic rocks are formed when heat and pressure change the structure of sedimentary rock

Give each student 3 different colored starburst candies. Explain that the candies will be used to represent different layers in a sedimentary rock. Have the students un-wrap the candy and stack them one on top of the other. Ask the class for some observations about their "sedimentary rocks". Now have the students hold the candy stacks between their open palms. Instruct them to push their palms together slowly (make sure they don't twist their hands or smash the candy into a ball). While they are pushing, ask the class what forces they are applying to the candy (heat and pressure. After a few minutes have the students look at their candy. Ask the class for observations, how has the candy changed. Explain that metamorphic rocks are formed under these same conditions, where there is high heat and pressure. Then let them eat their "rocks" :)