Identifying Minerals Lab6th Grade Earth Science

Mr. White

Warm Up

• List the 5 characteristics that all minerals must have.

• List the characteristics we use to identify minerals.

Mineral Identification Lab

1. Remember all lab safety rules apply

2. Follow all directions

3. Take clear notes

4. I will model how to perform the tests

5. Have fun!

Lab Instructions1. Choose a mineral sample and write the

number into your data table.

2. Using your handout, go through each test and

record your observations.

3. Once you have performed all the tests, return

the mineral sample and choose another one.

4. When you have tested all the mineral samples,

determine which minerals you have by using

the mineral identification chart and your

mineral guide book.

5. Record your findings in the first column of your

data table, along with the Mineral Id #.

Wrap Up

• Did you record all of your data• Did you identify the minerals by name• Discuss with your group any minerals

that you are not sure about• Did you clean up your work area

What’s Next?

• What are minerals made of?• How are they deposited?• How do we use minerals?