Fossils: Clues to the Past

What You'll Learn

Fossils are preserved remains or traces of ancient organisms. They form when organisms are buried in sediment that hardens into rock over millions of years.

Key Words

sediment
igneous

Materials Needed

sand
clay
water
plastic tray
magnifying glass
newspaper

Safety First

Do not taste any materials.

Steps

Step 1 — Read

Read the introduction and identify the main idea of this lesson.

Step 2 — Do

Set up a weather station: use a thermometer, rain gauge (a jar with a ruler), and wind sock (a plastic bag on a stick). Record data for one week.

Step 3 — Observe

Compare the before and after states.

Step 4 — Record

Write your conclusion: did the results match your hypothesis? What would you change next time?

Check Your Understanding

Question 1

1 of 3

Which layer of Earth is the thinnest?