Fossils: Progress Mastery Study Guide

Front

What do scientists study to learn about plants and animals that existed long ago?

Back

Scientists study fossils.

Front

What is the first step to forming a fossil?

Back

The plant or animal dies because it has to die before it has the possibility of becoming a fossil.

Front

What feature helps you know that a fossil is a plant?

Back

Shape.

Front

What can you learn about a fossil?

Back

You can learn its size.

Front

Who created a more accurate model of how a leaf fossil is formed, Erik or Carol?

Back

Carol, because the glue represents the minerals filling in the spaces to form a fossil.

Front

What is a fossil?

Back

A fossil is the preserved remains or traces of a plant or animal that lived long ago.

Front

How do fossils form?

Back

Fossils form when plants or animals die and are buried by sediment.

Front

What can fossils tell us about the past?

Back

Fossils can tell us about the size, shape, and environment of ancient plants and animals.

Front

What is sediment?

Back

Sediment is small pieces of rock, soil, and other materials that can cover dead plants and animals.

Front

Why is the shape of a fossil important?

Back

The shape helps scientists identify what type of plant or animal it was.