Year 3 Science Block 1
Year 3 Topic – Rocks and Soils
This unit introduces children to rocks, fossils and soils through hands-on investigations and observation. Pupils will learn how different types of rocks are formed, how fossils provide evidence of life in the past, and what soil is made from.
Lessons are approximately 75 minutes long and are best taught in sequence. This unit is ideal as the first topic in Year 3, supporting pupils as they begin to work scientifically at a Key Stage 2 level.
View small steps and unit outcomes
Small steps
- What can we see when we look at rocks?
- How are rocks formed?
- How are fossils formed?
- What fossils have we found?
- How can we investigate rocks?
- How can we investigate soil?
Unit Outcomes (secure)
Rocks
- Compare and group together different kinds of rocks on the basis of their appearance and simple physical properties
Fossils
- Describe how fossils are formed when things that have lived are trapped within rock
Soils
- Recognise that soils are made from rocks and organic matter
Working scientifically
- Asking relevant questions and using different types of scientific enquiries to answer them
- Making systematic and careful observations using a range of equipment
- Recording findings using simple scientific language, drawings, labelled diagrams and tables
Year 3 Rocks and Soils Science Unit
Introduce pupils to the fascinating world beneath their feet with our Year 3 rocks and soils science unit. This complete KS2 science lesson pack includes Year 3 rocks worksheets, editable PowerPoints, and investigation activities, fully aligned with the KS2 science National Curriculum.
What’s included?
Our Year 3 science resources are ready to download and include everything you need for effective teaching:
- Interactive animated PowerPoint slides for each lesson
- Differentiated rocks and soils worksheets (1-star to 3-star)
- Knowledge organisers with key vocabulary and definitions
- Hands-on experiments and enquiry-led investigations
- End-of-unit assessment questions and teacher guidance
Scientific enquiry and vocabulary
This KS2 rocks and soils science unit of work helps children build core enquiry skills while learning key scientific vocabulary. Pupils will:
- Classify and compare rocks based on hardness and appearance
- Explore sedimentary, igneous and metamorphic rocks
- Create fossil imprints and explain the fossilisation process
- Test soil permeability and texture using simple equipment
- Record results and present conclusions using tables and diagrams
Lesson-by-lesson structure
Each lesson follows a consistent, practical structure:
- Whole-class input – using interactive Year 3 rocks and fossils PowerPoints
- Hands-on investigation – group activities and soil experiments
- Independent task – differentiated worksheets for all learners
- Review and reflect – class discussion or recorded outcome
Flexible teaching and assessment
Ideal for the start of Year 3, this block introduces science investigation skills for lower KS2. It can also be used flexibly at any point in the year. Includes:
- Clear National Curriculum links for Year 3 rocks objectives
- Adaptable lesson structure for weekly or block teaching
- Built-in assessment opportunities across the unit
Why choose this Year 3 science unit?
- Full coverage of the Year 3 rocks and soils National Curriculum objectives
- Engaging lesson plans with low-prep resources
- Editable slides and differentiated KS2 rocks worksheets
- Designed for confident science teaching and enquiry
- No year group labels on resources – suitable for mixed-age teaching
This Year 3 science unit on rocks, fossils and soils is perfect for teachers wanting clear planning, engaging resources and strong progression in science.
Start your free trial to access the full Year 3 rocks and soils scheme of work today.
