Fossils
Ancient life forms have been preserved, in part and in whole, in the rock record. These preserved pieces of ancient life forms are called fossils. Fossils found in limestone are usually formed by a process called cast and mold. Petrified wood is formed by a process called petrification. In very hot, arid environments, flesh can be dried out and preserved indefinitely. This process is called mummification. Read More...
The resources above cover the following skills:
Earth/Space Science: Students will use scientific skills and processes to explain the chemical and physical interactions (i.e., natural forces and cycles, transfer of energy) of the environment, Earth, and the universe that occur over time.
Earth History: Recognize and explain that fossils found in layers of sedimentary rock provide evidence of changing life forms.
Recognize how different types of fossils are formed, such as petrified remains, imprints, molds and casts.
Recognize and explain that the fossil record of plants and animals describes changes in life forms over time.