This photo shows the results of rocks being folded.  You can see how the rocks were originally deposited and formed in flat layers.  When the plates collided, the rock layers were pushed together into a fold.  When the rocks are folded into a “U” form it is called a syncline, and when the rocks are folded into a “∩” form it is called an anticline.

Kids, try this at home:  Use modeling clay or Play-doh in different colors to make “layers” of rock.  Using your hands, push the ends of the rock together and see how the layers fold and change from the pressure. See the full experiment here.

ó      Plastic Wrap

ó      Clay

ó     Water

ó      Notebook

ó      Camera (optional)

Step 1:  Take the water and wet the clay.  Work the water into the clay with your hands until soft and moist.

Step 2:  Divide the clay into two equal pieces and roll it into a ball, square or any other shape you like.

Step 3:  Wrap each piece of clay in plastic wrap.

Step 4:  Place one piece of clay into the freezer and leave the other piece on your table or counter.  Let the clay stay in the freezer overnight.

Step 5:  The next day, take the clay out of the freezer and unwrap both pieces. 

Observe:

Do the clay pieces look different?  If so, how?  Hint:  the clay from the freezer should have the some cracks.  Examine the clay with a hand magnifier to get a closer look at the cracks.  Write about your findings in a notebook and take pictures if you want.

Then, wrap each clay piece back up and put the one piece back into the freezer and repeat for several days.  Observe the clay pieces each day and see how the cracks change over time.  You are now a true Mini Me Geologist!