Lesson Plan

Grades 3-5, 6-8

Mining for Chocolate

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15 minutes (Part 1); 30 minutes (Part 2)

SUBJECTS: Science, Social Studies

TOPICS: Minerals, Personal Consumption

Resource Overview

After matching everyday products to their rock or mineral sources, students “mine” chocolate chip cookies to discover the impacts of many mining operations.

Students will be able to:
  • Use observation to make an estimation.
  • Identify the difficulties of mining ore from the earth.
  • Describe how mining operations can affect the land.
  • Examine the opportunity costs associated with full-scale mining operations and name two examples.
  • Match everyday items with the ore from which they are made.

Features of This Resource

  • Includes discussion of economic concepts such as opportunity cost
  • Students reach fun “ah-ha” moment
  • Mining Area Grid gives concrete way for students to consider how mining affects other species and natural resources

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