The Fossil Record and Evolution (Part 2)

What You'll Learn

The fossil record provides evidence for evolution by showing how organisms have changed over time. Transitional fossils show features of both ancestral and descendant species.

Key Words

dominant
recessive
mutation

Materials Needed

onion skin
iodine stain
paper
colored pencils

Safety First

Wash hands after handling materials.
Be careful with scissors — ask an adult for help if needed.

Steps

Step 1 — Read

Read and learn: The fossil record provides evidence for evolution by showing how organisms have changed over time. Transitional fossils show features of both ancestral and descendant species.

Step 2 — Do

Follow the procedure carefully, step by step.

Step 3 — Observe

Use your senses (except taste) to describe what you notice.

Step 4 — Record

Write a summary of your findings in 3-5 sentences.

Check Your Understanding

Question 1

1 of 3

What provides evidence for evolution?