In this fun experiment, your students will make edible rocks using Starburst candies. Three different processes will be used to represent three kinds of real rocks: sedimentary, metamorphic, and igneous. Remember to have adult supervision, especially when using a toaster oven for safety during the experiment. Enjoy crafting and savoring your delicious rock creations!

Vocabulary

  • Sedimentary Rocks: formed when small particles like sand, mud, and even tiny plants and animals collect and pile up. Over time, these layers are squashed under more and more layers. Eventually, the layers are lithified or turned to rock.
  • Metamorphic Rocks: formed when other rocks are affected by great temperatures and pressures. They do not melt, but the chemicals they contain may change their forms, or crystal shapes. Marble and slate are two examples of metamorphic rocks.
  • Igneous Rocks: formed when hot, molten rock crystallizes and solidifies.

Supplies

  • Aluminum Foil
  • Wax Paper
  • 9 Starbursts
  • Toaster Oven
  • Towels

Directions

  1. First, unwrap your 3 Starburst and lay the foil flat on the table with the wax paper on top.
  2. Stack the 3 Starburst on top of each other in the center of the wax paper.
  3. Roll the papers over the Starburst and cover them in the foil. Repeat these steps to make each rock.

For sedimentary rocks, stand on the foil to create pressure.

For metamorphic rocks, place the foil in the toaster oven for 1 minute and 30 seconds.

For igneous rocks, place the foil in the toaster over for 8 minutes – be careful, it will be very hot!

Add this Rock Cycle Poster to your classroom to help students visualize the process of the rock cycle and the various types of rocks they may find around their school!