From Big Rocks to Tiny Pieces — Reading Comprehension

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This engaging science passage, 'From Big Rocks to Tiny Pieces,' explores the fascinating process of how rocks change over time through weathering and erosion. Designed for Grade 4-5 students and aligned with NGSS standards, the passage introduces key concepts such as physical and chemical weathering, erosion, and deposition. Students will discover how natural forces like wind, water, and ice break rocks into smaller pieces and how these tiny pieces help form soil. Real-world examples, such as river rocks and mountain landscapes, make the science come alive. The passage also includes a glossary of key terms, a Spanish translation, comprehension quiz, and thought-provoking writing activities. This resource is perfect for building science literacy and vocabulary, supporting both classroom and independent learning. Audio integration helps support diverse learners. Keywords: weathering, erosion, rocks, soil, science, NGSS, grade 4, geology.

CONTENT PREVIEW

Detailed view of jagged grey stones, highlighting texture and natural pattern. — Over time, big rocks can break into smaller and smaller pieces. ." Image by Johnny Mckane /
Source: Pexels.

Rocks on Earth are always changing, even if we do not notice it right away. Over time, big rocks can break into smaller and smaller pieces. Scientists call this process weathering. Weathering happens when rocks are broken down by natural forces like wind, water, ice, and even plants.

There are two main types of weathering: physical weathering and chemical weathering. In physical weathering, rocks break apart without changing what they are made of. For example, when water freezes in cracks in a rock, it expands and causes the rock to split. In chemical weathering, the minerals in rocks change because of reactions with water, air, or other chemicals. This can make rocks weaker and easier to break.

Once rocks are broken into smaller pieces, these pieces can be moved by erosion. Erosion is when wind, water, or ice carry away rock pieces to new places. A river can carry small pebbles downstream, or wind can blow sand from one place to another. The rock pieces are dropped in new locations through a process called deposition.

Over time, weathering and erosion help create soil. Soil is made from tiny pieces of rock mixed with plant and animal remains. Soil is very important because it helps plants grow, which supports all life on Earth.

Real-world examples of weathering and erosion can be seen everywhere. Rocks in a river are often smooth because water has worn them down over many years. Mountains slowly turn into hills as their rocks break apart and move away.

Interesting Fact: Some rocks can take thousands or even millions of years to break down into soil through weathering and erosion!

What is weathering?

Breaking rocks by natural forcesMoving rocks to new placesBuilding new rocksRocks melting in the sun

What causes physical weathering?

Wind, water, ice, and plantsOnly volcanoesJust humansElectricity

What is soil made of?

Tiny rock pieces and remainsOnly water and airJust sandPlastic and metal

How does water cause rocks to break?

Freezes in cracks and expandsHeats up rocksTurns rocks into cloudsShrinks inside rocks

What happens after rocks break into pieces?

Pieces are moved by erosionPieces disappear foreverThey become metalThey stay in one place

Why are river rocks smooth?