Begin with a captivating story about discovering a dinosaur fossil, setting the stage for understanding fossilization.
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Fossilization – A Closer Look
Learning Objectives
- Understand the process of fossilization and how certain conditions preserve parts of organisms.
- Identify the stages of fossilization from organism death to fossil discovery.
- Explain how minerals replace bones during the fossilization process to create a rock version of the skeleton.
- Recognize the role of scientists in discovering and studying fossils to learn about ancient organisms.
Introduction and Hook
Direct Instruction
Explain the process of fossilization, emphasizing how minerals replace bones to form fossils.
Use the video 'All About the Dinosaurs' to illustrate the diverse characteristics and adaptations of dinosaurs, providing context for fossilization.
Guided Exploration
Discuss the stages of fossilization from organism death to fossil discovery, using visual aids.
Watch 'Organisms of the Past – Wooly Mammoths' to understand how scientists study preserved specimens to learn about ancient organisms.
Hands-On Activity
Engage students in a fossil-making activity using materials like plaster and clay to simulate the fossilization process.
Use the 'Making Fossils' assessment to guide students through creating their own fossils, fostering observation and analytical skills.
Independent Practice
Assign students to research a specific fossil and present their findings, focusing on the fossilization process and the organism's historical context.
Check for Understanding
Conduct a class discussion to review the stages of fossilization and the role of scientists in studying fossils.
Review and Reflection
Have students write a reflection on what they learned about fossilization and its importance in understanding Earth's history.
Assessment and Extension
Use the 'All About Fossils' assessment to evaluate students' understanding of fossil formation and significance.
Encourage students to take the unit quiz to test their comprehension of the topic.
Try the Quiz
