FAKULTI KEJURUTERAAN AWAM

UNIVERSITI TEKNOLOGI MARA

LABORATORY MANUAL

COURSE GEOLOGY
COURSE CODE ECG 253
LEVEL OF OPENNESS 0
CATEGORY TRADITIONAL
DEGREE OF OPEN-ENDED (%) 0
PERIOD OF ACTIVITY 1 WEEK

TITLE IDENTIFICATION OF METAMORPHIC ROCKS

1.1 Introduction
The traditional methods of conducting laboratory activities (assigned as
Level 0) will not be able to provide the avenue for students to enhance
independent learning activities and inculcate creativity and innovation.
The traditional method is fully prescriptive where the three elements
namely problem, ways & means and answers are provided/ fully given
to the students. However, it is still necessary to be implemented as part
of the whole laboratory course activity especially to first and second
year students.

In this laboratory activity student will be exposed to the technique on

identifying the physical characteristics of igneous rocks.
PREAMBLE
1.1 Objectives
i. To identify the characteristics of metamorphic rocks.
ii. To classify the metamorphic rock

1.3 Learning Outcomes

At the end of the laboratory activities, students would be able to:
1. Identify the correct apparatus to conduct the laboratory activity.
2. Identify the physical characteristics of metamorphic rocks.
3.Perform effectively as a team in carrying out the task and produce
the relevant technical report.

Metamorphic rocks are formed due to the transformation of pre-existing

igneous or sedimentary rocks that have been buried deeply within the crust
due to the movement of lithospheric plates. The term metamorphism
involves the alteration of existing rocks by either excessive heat or pressure
PROBLEM or through chemical action of fluids. Due to metamorphism, rocks may
STATEMENT undergo changes in their mineral composition leading to formation of new
mineral and changes in texture. Classification of metamorphic rock can be
divided into foliated and non-foliated.
As a group you are given various samples of metamorphic rocks to make
an observation using the appropriate apparatus available in the laboratory.

©FKA, UiTM SEPT 2017 – JAN 2018

FAKULTI KEJURUTERAAN AWAM
UNIVERSITI TEKNOLOGI MARA
LABORATORY MANUAL

3.1 Apparatus:
i. Magnifying hand lens
ii. Set of sedimentary rocks sample

3.2 Procedure:
1. Select the labelled specimen of sedimentary rocks given in the
list of rocks.
2. Observe the samples to determine the physical characteristics of
sedimentary rocks
3. Tabulate the result from the observation complete with the
WAYS & MEANS pictures of the rock sample.

3.3 Data Acquisition

Observation should be made on the following items:
i. Rock name
ii. Colour
iv. Composition of minerals
v. Grain size
vi. Classification (Foliation / granular)
vii. Texture
.

4 Results, Analysis and Conclusion

The group is required to submit the technical report of the laboratory results
highlighting the data acquisition process, analysis carried out and the
relevancy of the set-out output to achieve the objective.

Results & Analysis

i. All data recorded must be organized in the table.
ii. Attach the diagram/ picture for each of the rock sample and label it
clearly.

Discussion
RESULTS Answer the following questions;
a) Describe the all types of metamorphism.
b) Explain in details the different textures of metamorphic rock.
c) Identify the parent rock of your samples before turn to
metamorphic rocks.
a) Identify the uses of metamorphic rock in civil engineering.
b) Briefly explain the strength and stability of metamorphic rock
in construction engineering perspective.

The report must be submitted 7 days after the completion of the test.

©FKA, UiTM SEPT 2017 – JAN 2018