Crystal systems

In this activity, students investigate crystal shapes and crystal systems. Traditional ceramics are clay-based – clays have a mineral composition and minerals have a crystalline structure.

By the end of this activity, students should be able to:

• describe the main points of difference between a crystalline solid and an amorphous solid
• recognise and identify at least 3 of the 7 crystal systems
• use models to point out the angular and side length differences that characterise the cubic, triclinic and rhombohedral crystal systems
• effectively use optical aids such as hand lenses and simple microscopes to view crystalline solids.

Rights: The University of Waikato Te Whare Wānanga o Waikato

Seven crystal systems

Only a limited number of crystal shapes have been found in nature. There are only 7 groups, or crystal systems, into which all naturally occurring crystals can be placed.

Download the Word file (see link below) for:

• introduction/background notes
• instructions on what you need and what to do
• student worksheet.