In this Evidence from Rock Layers Digital Science Mini Lesson and Activity, students will learn how to identify evidence from patterns in rock formations and fossils in rock layers to support an explanation for changes in a landscape over time. Aligned to NGSS 4-ESS1-1, this interactive digital resource introduces students to key science vocabulary, builds background knowledge, develops deeper understanding, and assesses learning.

Students begin by reviewing Tier 3 Academic Vocabulary, then watch a short, engaging custom video that clearly explains evidence from rock layers.

Students also complete a certified Lexile® leveled digital interactive reader about Badlands National Park, helping them connect evidence from rock layers to the real world. Reading comprehension questions help reinforce key reading and science concepts.

Next, students apply what they’ve learned by analyzing rock layers in the Grand Canyon.

The activity concludes with a short quiz about evidence from rock layers, so students can test what they’ve learned.

⚡What is a Lightning Lesson? – Lightning Lessons are short, engaging, easy to use, fully digital lessons. Each lesson:

• Introduces and Builds Tier 3 Academic Vocabulary
• Explains Key Concepts with Engaging Videos and/or Digital Lessons
• Connects Science to Everyday Life with Practice Activities
• Tests Student Learning with a Short Quiz or Assessment
• Contains Audio Read Aloud Option for Emergent Readers or Students with Special Needs

✨ MagiCore WebLink Digital Resource – This resource uses the power of MagiCore’s WebLink for an interactive browser based experience that is easy to use and keeps students engaged and learning. Once you try a MagiCore WebLink activity, you’ll never look at Google Slides the same way again. CLICK HERE to experience it for yourself!

NOTE: This entire unit is digital. It is NOT printable. The final screen includes an option to view or print a summary of the student’s responses.

*Videos are not hosted on YouTube. This resource does not require YouTube access.

Key Features:

• No Prep: Each lesson is designed to take 30-45 minutes, making them perfect for quick practice sessions. Everything you need from preteaching vocabulary, video lesson, activity, reading, and quiz is included. Just share the link or use the QR code and you’re good to go!
• Audio Support: Every lesson includes audio to aid in pronunciation and understanding. Audio options help support emergent readers or students with special needs.
• Self-Correcting: Immediate feedback helps students learn and correct mistakes on the spot.
• Repeatable Practice: Students can practice lessons multiple times to reinforce and master skills.

⚡ Immediate Student Feedback! Students will see if their answers are correct or incorrect for each question or activity. Teachers can review or print responses at the end of the lesson.

How to Use a Lightning Lesson:

Perfect for whole class lessons projected on a Smartboard or projector OR for independent student practice, centers, or review. There are so many ways to use a Lightning Lesson. All you need is a device and an internet connection!

Aligned to NGSS 4-ESS1-1: Identify evidence from patterns in rock formations and fossils in rock layers to support an explanation for changes in a landscape over time.

What’s Included?

1. Key Vocabulary
2. Custom Video Introducing Evidence from Rock Layers
3. Evidence from Rock Layers Activity
4. Badlands National Park Lexile Leveled Interactive Reader & Questions – 780L
5. Evidence from Rock Layers Quiz
6. Printable Answer Sheet

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