Fossils: Clues to the Past (Part 2)

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

anemometer
rock cycle
aquifer

Materials Needed

clay
water
plastic tray
magnifying glass
newspaper
spray bottle

Safety First

Handle glass items carefully to avoid breakage.
Do not mix unknown chemicals together.
Tie back long hair before starting the experiment.

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?