lesson
Traces from long ago
1 · Learn
A fossil is preserved evidence of a living thing from long ago. It might be a body part, an imprint or a trace such as a footprint.
One way fossils form begins when remains or a trace are covered by sediment. Over a long time, sediment can become rock and evidence may be preserved. Most living things do not become fossils.
2 · Worked example
A shell leaves an impression in sediment that later becomes rock. The shape can be preserved even if the original shell is no longer there.
3 · Your turn
Can a fossil be a footprint rather than an animal's whole body? Explain.
Check your answer
Yes. Fossils include traces of living things, such as preserved footprints, as well as body remains.
4 · Apply your learning
Make an imprint in safe modelling material using a toy. Explain that this models a shape, not the long natural process of fossilisation.
Adult guidance and safety
No digging at protected sites or handling unknown remains. Classroom imprints are models, not newly made real fossils.
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My observation notebook
With an adult, look at a safe real example or a checked photograph. Name the example and say which you used. Record what you actually notice. Do not taste plants or materials, approach unknown animals or invent missing observations.
Ask your teacher for support with the method and recording. A prediction is what you think might happen; an observation is what you actually see, hear or feel safely.
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