Ranks of Coal Activity

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Objective

The student will be able to rank or identify coal based on physical properties.

Concept

There are four basic varieties of coal, which are the result of geologic forces having altered plant material in different ways.

Skill Reinforcement

• Critical thinking
• Cooperative learning
• Comparison and contrast

Grade Level

Grades 7 through 12

Time Needed

One class period

Materials

• three coal specimens for each of the basic types (rank) and one piece of slate or shale (each sample numbered from one to four - if using more than one set, make sure each types [rank] has the same number in each kit). Each kit has the four specimens in a paper bag.
• worksheet

Procedure

Divide class into working groups. Inform students that each bag contains three ranks of coal plus a sample of slate. Ask them to write the name for the rank of coal that they think matches the number. Tell them to use their knowledge about how coal forms to help them make decisions.

Activity developed by Kathleen Berry.

Ranks of Coal Worksheet

Name: ____________________________________

Date:________________________

Examine the coal samples provided and fill in the following chart based on your knowledge of the different types of coal.

Sample #	Type of Coal	Observations
1
2
3
4

After looking at the specimens in your bag answer the following questions (explain your choices to team members):

A. Why do you think early coal miners of the pick-and-shovel days had difficulty in determining where the coal seam was? (Hint: think about the non-coal specimen in your bag.)

B. Why do slate (shale) dumps burn? (Hint: think about your answer to question A.)