What are Fossils?

2nd GradeScience30 min

Learning Objective

I can describe what a fossil is and how it is formed.

Lesson Flow

Watch Video

5 min

Dig In To Paleontology

SciShow Kids

Guided Notes

6 min

Key concepts students will learn:

  • Paleontologists are scientists who study all kinds of things that lived a really long time ago, like reptiles, mammals, plants, and even tiny bacteria.

  • Fossils are the remains of animals and plants from long ago that slowly became preserved in rocks.

  • Paleontologists use tools like picks, shovels, and big diggers to unearth fossils, and then they study them in a laboratory.

Practice

10 min

3 questions • Short answer

Exit Ticket

5 min

What is a fossil? How are fossils made?

Teacher Guide

Get the complete package:

  • Answer keys for all questions
  • Differentiation strategies
  • Extension activities
  • Printable student handouts