Description: This event is usually done as stations that teams rotate through. It can also be done as an individual test taking event, where each station has been copied into a test for the team.  Teams may be viewing any combination of samples, pictures, or recorded/written descriptions. They will then be asked to answer questions (multiple choice, fill in the blank, short answer, generating graphs or charts, etc) about the sample, including identification, classification by properties, origin, uses and importance. Teams may be asked multiple questions at each station.

Materials: Teams MUST bring a writing instrument and safety goggles.

Event Leaders will provide any specimens/materials required to complete the stations, the official test and answer sheet.

Scoring: High score wins. Predetermined questions will be used to break ties.

Common Mistakes:

Recommendations:

• Create a notebook to study from. Have one page for each rock or mineral on the Official List.

Event Resources:
2010 Study Guide Template
Sample Event Stations (2010 rules)
Mineral Information Institute (Great website with lesson plans, student help, information, pictures, and more)
University of Texas Geology (introduction and explanation of mineral properties)
Mineralogy Database
Helpful Quizzes
See the event help page for the Middle and High School version of this event

2010 North Carolina Rocks and Minerals List:

Marble	Dunite/Olivine	Alaskite	Spodumene/Pegmatite	Gneiss
Slate	Pyrophyllite	Sandstone	Diabase	Granite
Limestone	Calcite	Kaolin	Mica-Muscovite	Mica-Biotite
Obsidian	Feldspar	Pyrite	Coal	Orbicular rhyolite
Quartz- Rose	Quartz-Amethyst	Quartz- Citrine	Quartz- Milky	Quartz- Tiger’s Eye

Pictures and Video: