Virginia Earth Science Standards of Learning addressed in this activity:

ES.1 The student will plan and conduct investigations in which:

• Elapsed time, temperature are calculated utilizing the most appropriate tools;
  
• Technologies, including computers, are used to collect data and to demonstrate concepts.
  
• Variables are manipulated with repeated trials.

ES.6 The student will investigate and understand how to identify common rock types based on mineral composition and textures and the rock cycle as it relates to the transformation of rock types. Key concepts include igneous (intrusive and extrusive).