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1. Fluorite is the state mineral of Illinois. Have your students contact geological surveys in other states to request information and samples of their state mineral. Use the donated specimens to create a "Mineral of the USA" classroom display. Visit []. for a listing of state geological survey websites. 2. Students could rearch the chemical composition of their adopted minerals or the minerals in the testing sets. Make a master list of the elements and chart the number of times each one appears in a chemical formula. Investigate mineral groups, such as silicates, oxides, carbonates, etc., and relate to the chemical composition of the adopted minerals. 3. Use the Mighty Mineral reports to create a scavenger hunt exploring the uses of the state minerals.
 * Extensions:**


 * Assessment:** Assessments for this activity should be based on the student's ability to perform the mineral identification tests, make accurate measurements, and record collected data. Providing samples of common minerals for the students to group according to a specific property, such as hardness, or identify in a lab practical situation may be used as a performance assessment. Evaluation of the Mighty Mineral report (advertisement and data sheet) should also be considered to determine if the objectives have been met.

Educational Series 5: Guide to Rocks and Minerals of Illinois Published by Illinois State Geological Survey, 1971 Ordering Information can be found at: http://www.isgs.uiuc.edu/servs/pubs/edushome.htm Golden Guide: Rocks and Minerals ISBN #0-307-244997
 * Print Resources:**

EyeWitness Handbooks: Rocks and Minerals by Chris Pellant, ISBN # 1-56458-033-4

Web Resources: ISM Geology Online GeoGallery http://geologyonline.museum.state.il.us/geogallery

The Science Spot: Earth Science Links for Kids http://sciencespot.net/Pages/Kdzethsci3.html

Illinois State Geological Survey web site - links to state geological survery http://www.isgs.uiuc.edu/us-map/usa-surveys.html