How are fossils formed? - Teacher notes

Exploring the fascinating world of fossils is an engaging way for students to learn about the history of life on Earth. Teachers can initiate the lesson by presenting a collection of fossils, encouraging students to investigate and hypothesise about the origins of these ancient remains and the eras in which the creatures might have lived. To enhance their understanding, students are directed to watch two educational videos that delve into the process of fossilisation and the different types of fossils that can be found.

Working collaboratively in groups of four, students are tasked with creating a fact file on two fossils each, collectively broadening the group's knowledge to eight distinct types of fossils. This research exercise not only educates them on the variety of fossils but also hones their investigative and documentation skills. To bring the concept to life, students can use clay to simulate the fossilisation process. By pressing leaves or other objects into the clay, they can observe how impressions and casts are formed, providing a tactile and visual representation of how fossils are created over time. The hands-on activity complements the theoretical learning, offering a comprehensive understanding of fossil formation.