The History of the Earth: Supplemental Guide 217Dear Family Member,I hope your child is enjoying our study of the history of the earth. Today your child learned
about minerals. Soon s/he will learn that all rocks can be sorted into three groups: igneous,
sedimentary, and metamorphic. S/he will also learn what fossils and dinosaurs tell us about
life on earth many, many years ago.
Below are some suggestions for activities that you may do at home to continue to enjoy
learning about the history of the earth.- Making Rock Crystals
Today your child learned that most rocks are made up of two or more minerals and that
some minerals form into perfect crystals with many sides and distinct shapes. Experiment
with creating your own sugar or salt crystals at home using the recipe on the other side of this
sheet. - Homemade Fossils
Fossils are the preserved body or imprint
of a plant or animal that lived long, long ago.
Create homemade fossil dough by mixing 1 cup
wet, used coffee grounds, ½ cup cold coffee,
½ cup salt, and 1 1/3 cups fl our. Add more fl our
if dough is sticky. Divide dough into balls, and
place each ball onto waxed paper or a cutting
board. Have your child fl atten the ball and then
press toy insects, leaves, shells, or stones into
the dough to create imprints. Allow the fossils
to dry overnight. Have your child bring his or
her completed fossil to school to add to the
class fossil museum. - Read Aloud Each Day
Continue to read to your child books about
minerals, rock types, fossils, and dinosaurs.
Be sure to let your child know how much
you enjoy hearing about what s/he has been
learning at school.5B-4