Includes bibliographical references (page 32) and index.

"Minerals are an essential part of the Earth science curriculum since silicate minerals make up more than 90 percent of Earth s crust! In order to understand this fact, though, students need to know the difference between minerals and rocks, how minerals form, and how minerals are structured. This book breaks down these topics and more in simple, clear language ideal for struggling readers or those looking to review an important topic. Fact boxes elaborate on difficult concepts and define scientific terms, complementing the main content s curriculum focus and full-color photographs of common minerals." --,(Source of summary not specified)