To observe and describe physical characteristics of edible samples chosen as models of real rocks or meteorites.

exterior

interior

texture

layers

homogeneous

curst

rim

matrix

inclusions

angular

bleb

chondrules (spherical balls)

phases

thin

dense

vesicles

Materials

prepared edible samples

in transparent bags

sketch paper

Good observations set the foundation for good interpretations. The ability to carefully observe and describe things improves with practice. Here is a chance to practice your observation skills on something you are already familiar with: candy! Can you describe the physical characteristics of these edible samples without using food terms? Could you or someone else identify the sample after reading your description? Try it!

Procedure

1.

Choose a sample to observe and describe. You may remove the sample from the bag, but handle it carefully and do not taste.

2.

Make a detailed sketch of the sample. Show the interior and exterior details. You may lable parts of the sketch, but do not use any food terms.

3.

Write 2 to 3 sentences descibing the physical characteristics of the interior and exterior of the sample. Do not use any food terms. For example, do not use the word chocolate. Make your description as clear and complete as you possibly can.

4.

How descriptive were you? If all the samples were placed in a row, could a classmate match your description to the correct sample? Try it. Can you match your description to the "Field Note" Sample Descriptions on the "key" table? Try it.