My First Venture in Earth Science: Mineral Star of the Week!

How do I get my students interested in rocks and minerals? When my students leave 7th grade, what do I want them to remember about rocks and minerals?  They certainly won't remember every detail we study, but if I can get them to appreciate minerals, recall some general ideas, and be able to identify some common minerals I would be happy.  How can I simplify the facts and make it fun for a 12 year old who couldn't care less about rocks?  Here is my answer...

Mineral Star of the Week!  (Get it?!  "Mineral" Star instead of "Rock" Star?!)
I'm going to begin the year by introducing the basic families of minerals by their common ingredient (chemical composition).  I made posters that I'm going to hang on my closet door, since it's boring looking anyhow.  Here is the link to my free poster set...

Mineral Star of the Week Posters {FREE}

Each week I'm going to highlight a different mineral.  I'll give 3-4 facts about the mineral and review them each class period.  At the end of each week I'll choose one name at random to answer questions about the mineral.  If all correct answers are given the student will keep the mineral!  Here are the minerals I chose to start with... (I teach 3 sections of earth science, so there are 3 of each mineral.)

Included in the photo are rose quartz, bloodstone, Tiger's eye, and amethyst points.  As you can see, I'll be highlighting the silicate group first.  

Please let me know what you think or if you have any suggestions to make this idea better!  If you download my free posters, please leave feedback.  I appreciate it oh, so much!

Crazy Science Lady