Paleontology

Paleontology is the scientific study of prehistoric life, including the study of fossils, ancient plants, and ancient animals. Paleontologists use a variety of scientific techniques to uncover and study the remains of ancient organisms in order to understand the history of life on Earth.

Key Concepts in Paleontology

Fossils: Fossils are the preserved remains or traces of ancient organisms. They can be found in rocks, sediment, and ice, providing valuable information about past life forms.
Evolution: Paleontology helps us understand the process of evolution by studying the changes in ancient organisms over time, and how new species emerged and went extinct.
Stratigraphy: The study of rock layers (strata) and the layering of sedimentary rocks to understand the geological timeline of Earth's history.
Paleobiology: The study of ancient organisms and their biological characteristics, including their anatomy, behavior, and ecological interactions.
Paleoclimate: Paleontologists analyze fossils and ancient plant life to reconstruct past climates and environmental conditions.

Methods and Tools Used in Paleontology

Fossil Excavation: Paleontologists use tools such as brushes, chisels, and rock hammers to carefully extract fossils from their surrounding rock.
Microscopy: Microscopic analysis helps paleontologists study the structure and composition of fossils at a detailed level.
Radiometric Dating: This method helps determine the age of fossils and rocks by measuring the decay of radioactive isotopes.
CT Scanning: Computerized Tomography (CT) scanning is used to create detailed 3D images of fossils without damaging them.
Comparative Anatomy: Paleontologists compare the anatomy of ancient organisms with living species to understand their evolutionary relationships.

Notable Paleontologists and Discoveries

Include some notable paleontologists such as Mary Anning, Richard Owen, and Roy Chapman Andrews. Discuss their significant contributions to the field of paleontology and the major discoveries made by them.

Study Tips for Paleontology

Understand the principles of geology and stratigraphy to grasp the context of fossil discoveries.
Develop strong observational skills to identify and analyze fossils accurately.
Learn about evolutionary biology and anatomy to comprehend the significance of paleontological findings.
Stay updated with current research in paleontology through scientific journals and publications.
Participate in fossil identification exercises and field trips to gain practical experience in paleontological work.

By studying paleontology, you'll gain a deeper understanding of the history of life on Earth and the processes that have shaped the diversity of species we see today.

◂Science Worksheets and Study Guides Sixth Grade. Our impact on earth

Vocabulary/Answer key

Our impact on earth

The resources above cover the following skills:

EARTH AND SPACE SCIENCE

Earth’s Systems

Analyze and interpret data (e.g., tables, graphs, maps of global and regional temperatures; atmospheric levels of gases such as carbon dioxide and methane; rates of human activities) to describe how various human activities (e.g., use of fossil fuels, creation of urban heat islands, agricultural practices) and natural processes (e.g., solar radiation, greenhouse effect, volcanic activity) may cause changes in local and global temperatures over time.

Earth and Human Activity

Analyze evidence (e.g., databases on human populations, rates of consumption of food and other natural resources) to explain how changes in human population, per capita consumption of natural resources, and other human activities (e.g., land use, resource development, water and air pollution, urbanization) affect Earth’s systems.

Implement scientific principles to design processes for monitoring and minimizing human impact on the environment (e.g., water usage, including withdrawal of water from streams and aquifers or construction of dams and levees; land usage, including urban development, agriculture, or removal of wetlands; pollution of air, water, and land).