Earth: Rocks and minerals
-
Audience
Primary school -
Learning stage
Stage 2, Stage 3 -
Learning area
Science -
Type
Museum educator-led

© Australian Museum
About the program
What is the difference between a rock and a mineral? What do they look like? How were they formed?
Set in the Australian Museum’s spectacular Minerals gallery, this practical program explores the building blocks of planet Earth.
Students will work in groups to compare, describe, and identify rocks and minerals. They will learn about the formation of different rocks and investigate the special properties of some minerals.
Finally, students will put their observation skills to the test as they hunt for mystery specimens in the gallery!
Learning objectives:
In this program, students will:
- examine rock and mineral specimens.
- identify the formation and features of given rocks and minerals.
- think scientifically by making evidence-based decisions.
- work collaboratively.
Audience: This program is bookable for Stages 2–3
Cost: $10 (GST included) per student with a minimum cost of $100 per session
Duration: 45 minutes
Capacity: Up to 30 students per session
Term: Term 1-4 2025
Dates: Monday-Friday
Times: 10:00am, 11:00am, 12.15pm & 1:15pm
A Day at the Museum for disadvantaged schools
If you are classified as a disadvantaged Australian primary and/or secondary school with an ICSEA value of less than 1000, or a special school, as defined by the Australian Curriculum Assessment and Reporting Authority (ACARA) you may be eligible for our A Day at the Museum program.
The rocks and minerals session aligned perfectly with what we have been learning in Science in Term 4. It was truly amazing to hear the audible gasp when our students entered the rocks and minerals hall, as they took in all those treasures you have. The visit really made learning fun for our students, and was an amazing way to end the school year. Caroline Krix, Support Faculty, Cranebrook High School
This was a very valuable learning experience as it links directly with our learning at school. The hands-on activities and interesting facts engaged the students. Sam was an amazing educator with so much knowledge to share! C. Murray, Year 3, St Joseph's Catholic Primary School