Observe, Describe, and Sort Pictures of Rocks and Minerals

This set of printable picture and word cards is the perfect tool to help kids explore and identify different types of rocks in a fun and interactive way! The set includes two versions: one with pictures only and another with both pictures and the names of various rocks.

• With the picture-only version, students can focus on observing the unique characteristics of each rock, such as colour, texture, and size, encouraging them to describe and discuss what they see. 
• The picture-and-word version adds the names of the rocks, introducing students to specific rock types like granite, sandstone, and obsidian.

These versatile cards can be used in a variety of classroom activities, such as sorting, matching games, rock identification challenges, or even as part of a science centre display.

Ways to Use These Printable Rocks and Minerals Picture Cards

• Play a Memory Game! Print two copies of the cards. Lay the cards face down and have students take turns flipping two cards at a time to find matching pairs (e.g., picture of granite with its labelled card), building recognition and memory skills.
• Sort and Match! Provide students with real rock samples and have them sort the rocks by matching them to the picture-and-word cards, encouraging hands-on observation and classification.
• Create Your Own Rock and Mineral Chart—Use the cards as additions and references to create your own rock and mineral chart to display in the classroom.

Download, Print, and Go!

This downloadable teaching resource is available as a Google Slides or PDF resource file. To get your new resource, click the dropdown arrow on the download button to select the file you prefer.

This resource was created by Lindsey Phillips, a teacher and Teach Starter Collaborator.

Even More Ways to Teach Your Students All About Rocks!

Need more? Make sure you grab these rockin’ Rocks and Minerals activities before you go!

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