Hidden Values: Cracking the Geode

Submitted by Susan - Gilbert, Arizona
In this lesson plan, students will learn that geodes (geological rock formations) have beautiful interiors just as people have something special inside even though it cannot be seen.

Grade Level:

Junior High

Scope:

Class Activity

Materials Used:

Geodes (not split open)
Hammers
Old socks or other sack to split geode inside
Plastic bags
Markers

Procedure:

Have the geodes displayed on a table. Discuss the rocks with the students:

Are they pretty rocks? (Not really)
What are they qualities? (Grayish, bumpy, plain)
Are they the all the same? (No)
Are they similar? (Yes)
Allow each student to select a rock of their own and continue to discuss the rocks.
How is your rock like your neighbor’s?
How is it different?

Explain that the outside of these rocks are similar to people. We are alike in many ways.

What are some of our similarities? (Language, school, country)
How are we different from each other? (Size, color, language, different schools, etc).

Discuss how we recognize the differences and similarities. (I.E. through sight, hearing, etc).

Explain that the geodes are special inside, just as people are.

Take one rock and place inside a sock. Hit with hammer hard enough to break but not crush. Pull the geode out and show the class the inside of the rock. Hold up to the light so the crystals shine. Allow the rock to be passed around.

Ask the students if they knew the crystals were inside. Explain the science behind geodes.

Move the conversation back to people. Explain how people have “crystals” inside also - known as values, virtues or character. Talk about values and character.

Discussion:

How did we know there were crystals in the rock?
Answer - By breaking it.
Can we break people open to see their character?
Answer - Of course not.
Then how do we know if people have these qualities?
Answer - By their behavior
We now know that the rocks have something special inside. Look at your neighbor. She also has something special inside. Since she is special, how will you treat her? (Answers - with kindness, helpful, sharing, etc). These show respect.

While you might not like someone, remember they have “crystals” inside of them and deserve to be treated with respect and kindness.

End the lesson by allowing the students to break open their geodes (or have teacher break open each one for younger students). Allow students to compare the different insides of each. They can take the geodes home or put them on their desks as a reminder to treat others with respect and kindness.

*Editor’s note: This lesson plan was originally developed for a Girl Scout Troop and
was adapted for a classroom setting.