Weathering of Rocks Plants 4th Grade Science Experiment Activity 4-ESS2-1

The station combines reading, a simple simulation, and written responses so abstract ideas become concrete. It supports NGSS-aligned instruction on weathering and erosion.

It is also available as part of a larger bundle of weathering and Earth materials stations.

What’s Included

• Teacher notes with standards and implementation guidance
• Printable multi-page student reading passage
• Hands-on Explore Activity directions
• Student activity sheets for drawing, labeling, and written responses
• Comprehension questions: short answer and multiple choice
• Fill-in-the-blank worksheet option
• Task cards for flexible use
• Answer key for all components
• Google Forms and Google Slides versions

Skills Covered

• Understanding physical and chemical weathering
• Identifying how plants contribute to weathering
• Explaining root pry and root throw
• Analyzing cause and effect in Earth science
• Reading informational science text
• Recording observations and drawing conclusions

Ways to Use This Resource

• Set up as a science station during a weathering and erosion unit
• Use as a guided small group activity
• Add to interactive notebooks or science journals
• Assign digitally with the Google resources
• Pair with other stations for a full Earth processes unit

Why Teachers Love It

• Hands-on and engaging
• Aligned to NGSS 4-ESS2-1
• Combines reading, writing, and science
• Differentiated options
• Simple materials

This plants weathering rocks activity lets students see how something as small as a root can reshape a landscape.