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e-Journal

The Many Sides of Diamonds (p. 235)


Step 1. Questions

A diamond is a crystal. It is the hardest natural material known on Earth. Diamonds are interesting to look at. They are quite useful, also.

Write an explanatory essay about how diamonds are formed and how they are used. To write your essay, you will need to research industrial diamonds. Here are some questions to guide your research:
  • How are diamonds formed?
  • What are two types of diamonds?
  • In what ways do people use diamonds?
  • Why are diamonds a useful material?
Are you ready? Begin by visiting the Web sites in Step 2. Look for answers to the questions above, and write down what you learn in the note-taking boxes.

With teacher supervision, you may use search engines to research other Web sites. You also can research industrial diamonds at the library. When you are ready, follow Steps 3 and 4 to write your explanatory essay.


Step 2. Research

Research answers to the questions you were asked in Step 1. Visit these Web sites. Take notes about them on this page, too!


Toolbox Tip: Click here to learn how to surf the Internet safely.


Where Do Diamonds Come From?
Go to this American Museum of Natural History Web site to find out everything you ever wanted to know about diamonds. Some of the words on this site may be difficult, so read to get the main idea. First, read about where diamonds come from. This page has two diagrams that can help you understand this topic. Next, click HOW DIAMONDS SURFACE. When you have finished reading, click the INDUSTRY & TECHNOLOGY label at the top of your screen. This page is all about the ways people use diamonds.
Take Notes:



Diamonds Around the World
Click HOW DIAMONDS ARE FORMED to begin to understand their formation. Click WHAT PEOPLE DO WITH DIAMONDS to learn how people use diamonds. Finally, click INTERESTING FACTS to learn even more about this precious gem.
Take Notes:



Dazzling Diamond
Here is the full-length article from Time for Kids on which your textbook article is based. Scroll down to the bottom of the page to read some interesting facts about diamonds.
Take Notes:



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