Igneous Rock in Iowa

Igneous rocks in the form of granite rocks are all over Iowa, however there are no active volcanoes or active plates. These changes and rocks have occured through deposits from glaciers as well as changing landscapes during the Earth's history.

Video

Dike

Iowa Core Standard

MS-ESS1-4

Construct a scientific explanation based on evidence from rock strata for how the geologic time scale is used to organize Earth's 4.6-billion-year-old history.

Driving Question

How are igneous rocks like granite formed?

Probing Questions

What other ways besides volcanoes could granite rocks move?

Classroom Suggestions

Students could:

Use this phenomena to help introduce the concept of using rocks to determine Earth's history. The use of the sedimentary rock in Iowa would be helpful as well but the novelty of igneous rocks being in a place with a lack of volcanic action can spark some interests.
Use this phenomena as a way to introduce the rock cycle.

Resources

Santa Fe College | The Rock Cycle: This shows the three types of rocks and the rock cycle.
Geology.com | Rock identification: This is a simple chart that helps identify different types of rocks.
State of Iowa: | Landform Regions of Iowa: Simple explanations and map of how the glacier shaped Iowa's landscape.
Little Bins for Little Hands | Earth Science For Kids: While designed for younger learners, this page includes question examples and links to fun activities.

Contributors

Submitted by Scott Connolly