Rock Cycle - Student Choice Projects - MS

This project-based lesson allows middle school students to demonstrate their understanding of the rock cycle through student-directed projects. A choice board provides six structured project options plus a “design your own” pathway, giving students the flexibility to choose the format that best matches their strengths and creativity.

An editable grading rubric is included and may be used by teachers, peers, or students for self-assessment. The rubric can also be customized to match classroom or district grading needs.

What’s Included

• Choice Board: Nine project options, including “design your own”

• Teacher Directions Page: Support and implementation suggestions

• Editable Rubrics: Assess vocabulary, concepts, presentation, clarity, and accuracy

Differentiation

Two versions of the project page are provided:

• Modified Version: Three project options are scaffolded to support students who need additional help

• Extension Opportunities: Teachers may assign multiple projects to advanced learners while keeping grading consistent with the same rubric

This ensures flexibility for a wide variety of learners in the same classroom.

Supplies Needed

Projects are designed for completion using common classroom supplies such as paper, markers, and scissors. Many project formats can also be completed digitally, while optional craft supplies may be useful for building physical models.