Fossils
This Topic is About...
- I will explore how fossils are impressions or remains of things that were once alive.
- I will make and use models in science.
- I will use information sources to research and answer questions.
You’re going to be a science explorer!
Key Words
- fossil
- gum
- impression
Tap to Learn the Meanings!
- fossil: The remains or imprint of a plant or animal that lived long ago.
- gum: A sticky substance, often from trees, sometimes used to preserve things.
- impression: A mark or shape left behind when something presses into a surface.
Great job! You’re learning important words about fossils and preservation.
Fossils
The pattern in the rock shown by the photo is the fossil of this animal, a flying reptile called a Pterodactyl.
The animal had a long beak, a long neck, claws on its wings and two feet. All Pterodactyl died a very long time ago. But scientists have found many fossils of these animals in rocks.
A fossil is an impression made in mud. The hard parts of the dead animal press into the mud, and the shape of the hard parts is copied in the mud. Over a long time, the mud turns to rock.
Scientists who find fossils
Most fossils are buried under rocks deep underground. Sometimes the sea or a river will wash the rock away so that the fossil is easy to find. If scientists find a fossil, they dig it up very carefully.
These pictures show how a fossil formed deep in the ground can appear at the surface.
Think like a scientist 1
Make a fossil dig
When scientists dig for fossils they must be very careful. The fossils must not be damaged. This is why they use small tools and even paintbrushes to brush away soil and sand.
Can you find the buried fossils in your sand tray? Try to do this without damaging them.
👀 show answer
Scientists dig slowly and gently to avoid breaking fossils. Using tools like trowels and brushes helps remove sand carefully so hidden fossils can be uncovered safely.
A different type of fossil
Some fossils are different. This insect was trapped many years ago in sticky tree gum. Now we can see it very clearly as a fossil insect.
Think like a scientist 2
Finding out about Mary Anning
Over 200 years ago, Mary Anning lived by the sea in England. Mary collected fossils and became famous as a fossil collector. Below is a photograph of the fossil she discovered. At that time most scientists were men.
Have a look in books and on the internet for information about Mary Anning, her father, and her dog, Tray.
With a friend make a poster about Mary’s fossil collecting. Include three or four interesting things about her life.
What kind of science enquiry skills are you using here?
👀 show answer
You are using **research skills** to gather information from books and the internet. You are also using **observing**, **recording**, and **communicating** your findings when making a poster.