Rock Solid: Why I’m Obsessed with Rocks
By Janey Heard | Living the Teacher Life
There’s something grounding—literally and figuratively—about rocks. As a teacher, I spend my days helping students build foundations of knowledge, and in many ways, rocks remind me of that process. They’re ancient, resilient, and quietly powerful. My love for rocks isn’t just about geology—it’s about connection, curiosity, and the joy of noticing the small things.
Rocks Are Stories in Solid Form
Each rock holds a narrative. Whether it’s a smooth river stone shaped by years of rushing water or a jagged piece of granite from a mountain trail, rocks are time capsules. I often bring rocks into my classroom to spark conversations about history, science, and even art. Students are amazed to learn that the pebble in their hand might be millions of years old. It’s a beautiful way to teach patience and perspective.
Rocks Ground Me
When life feels chaotic—lesson plans, IEP meetings, grading, and the endless to-do lists—I find peace in nature. I hike often, and I always end up with a few rocks in my pocket. They’re my souvenirs, my reminders to slow down and breathe. There’s something meditative about sitting on a boulder, watching the world go by, and feeling the weight of the earth beneath you.
Rocks Are Beautiful in Their Imperfection
As a special education teacher, I’ve learned to celebrate differences. Rocks are a perfect metaphor for that. No two are exactly alike. Some are cracked, some are colorful, some are plain—but each has value. Their textures and shapes invite exploration and creativity.
Rocks Remind Me to Stay Curious
There’s always more to learn. What kind of rock is this? How did it form? Where did it come from? Rocks keep me asking questions, and that’s the heart of being a lifelong learner. Whether I’m hiking in Colorado Springs or teaching in my classroom, rocks remind me that wonder is everywhere.
types of Rocks and Their Everyday Uses
Rocks aren’t just beautiful—they’re incredibly useful. As a teacher and nature lover, I find it fascinating how the three main types of rocks—igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic—play essential roles in our daily lives. Here’s a breakdown of each type and how they show up in the world around us:
🪨 Igneous Rocks
Formed from: Cooling and solidification of magma or lava.
Examples: Granite, basalt, obsidian.
Uses:
Granite is widely used in countertops, flooring, and monuments because of its durability and aesthetic appeal.
Basalt is used in construction (especially road base) and as a decorative stone in landscaping.
Obsidian, with its glassy texture, was historically used for cutting tools and is now popular in jewelry and art.
🪨 Sedimentary Rocks
Formed from: Layers of sediment compressed over time.
Examples: Limestone, sandstone, shale.
Uses:
Limestone is a key ingredient in cement and is also used to neutralize acidic soils in agriculture.
Sandstone is used in building materials and paving due to its workability and natural beauty.
Shale can be a source of fossil fuels and is used in ceramics and bricks.
🪨 Metamorphic Rocks
Formed from: Existing rocks transformed by heat and pressure.
Examples: Marble, slate, schist.
Uses:
Marble is prized for sculptures, flooring, and countertops—think of classical statues and elegant buildings.
Slate is used for roofing, flooring, and chalkboards (a nostalgic nod to old-school classrooms!).
Schist, with its shiny layers, is used decoratively and sometimes in construction.
📚 Educational Sources on Rock Types and Their Uses
Science Notes – Types of Rocks: Igneous, Sedimentary, Metamorphic
A detailed overview of rock formation, characteristics, and practical uses.
Read more [sciencenotes.org]National Geographic Education – The Rock Cycle
Offers printable infographics and explanations of how rocks transform through the rock cycle.
Explore the resource [education....raphic.org]U.S. National Park Service – Rocks and Geology
Provides insights into rock types and their significance in natural landscapes.
Visit the page [www.nps.gov]EuroKids – Different Types of Rocks and Their Uses
A kid-friendly explanation of rock types and their everyday applications.
Read the article [www.euroki...sindia.com]Geology.com – Pictures and Facts About Rocks
Includes photos and facts about various igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks.
Browse the gallery [geology.com]Teach Starter – Rock Sorting Activity
A printable classroom activity for identifying and sorting rock types.
Download the resourceciteturn5search10Geology.com – Rock Cycle Lesson Plans and Classroom Activities
Offers kits, photos, and hands-on activities for teaching geology.
Explore lesson plans [geology.com]
