• Some fossils look like bones or shells from once living things
• An imprint can show the shape of a plant
• Fossils are found in layers of rock
• Different fossils may come from different environments
• Fossils can look similar to parts of an organism we see today

EXTENDING THE DISCUSSION
After the observational question, randomly call on one or more students to share what they or their partner answered. Then ask the class, “Did anyone notice…?” using the suggestions above or anything else you’ve noticed.

• How long does it take for fossils to form?
• Why are some living things preserved but others are not?
• What kind of environment existed when these fossils formed?
• How do scientists know what the organism looked like?
• Can all plants and animals become fossils?

EXTENDING THE DISCUSSION
After students have shared what they notice, ask the class, “Did anyone wonder…?” using the suggestions above or anything else you might think is interesting or relevant to the lesson.

To the observational question, How do fossils form?

LOW-LEVEL

Fossils form by plants or animals getting covered by dirt.

HIGH-LEVEL

Fossils form when the remains or imprints of a living organism are buried in sediment over time.

RESPONDING TO RESPONSES
Emphasize and celebrate each student’s use of the key vocabulary to support a culture of “no wrong answers.”