Identifying and Comparing Different Types of Coal

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Objective

Students will identify and compare the four different types of coal.

Concept

There are four major types of coal.

Skill Reinforcement

• Critical thinking
• Comparison and contrast
• Cooperative learning

Grade Level

Grades 4 through 8

Time Needed

One class period or less

Materials

• American Coal Foundation written materials and coal sample kit
• labels for student's backs (anthracite, bituminous, lignite and peat)

Procedure

1. Have students affix a "coal type" label to the back of each student.
2. By asking yes or no questions of their neighbors, each student must determine what type of coal they are (Example questions: "Am I used primarily in home heating energy?" or "Am I considered 'hard' coal?").
3. Assign a corner of the room for each type of coal. When the student thinks he/she knows what type they are, they can go to the appropriate corner.
4. Provide assistance to those who appear to be having trouble.
5. Review types of coal based on this exercise.

Activity developed by American Coal Foundation.