Middle School Science / 7th Grade
Fossil Detectives
How can we use science to tell if a fossil is real or fake?
Students take on the role of Fossil Detectives as they seek to answer the question, How can we use science to find out if a fossil is authentic and not FAKE? Groups investigate one particular fossil that is about to be auctioned. Students consider the age of fossils, compare ancient and modern organisms, and look for patterns in embryology in order to authenticate their group’s assigned fossil. Finally, groups create and present a Fossil Authenticity File in which they investigate and authenticate their fossil before it goes to auction.
Unit length: 6 weeks (30 hours)
”"I'm in the 10th grade. I love reading. I love skateboarding and recently I've learned to love coming to school."
Caleb, Student
