Fossils and Mass Extinction Events

This video guides seventh graders through an investigation of fossil data to find patterns. Students use Google Docs and Slides to answer questions and analyze data. The video covers the identification of mass extinction events, comparison of fossils with modern organisms, and analysis of fossils with each other. The goal is to understand how life on Earth has changed over time and recognize patterns in the fossil record.

What tool are you instructed to use to answer questions during the investigation?

• Microsoft Word

• Google Docs

• Notepad

• Excel

What is the significance of the blue line in the fossil illustration?

• It distinguishes between fossils found above and below it.

• It separates different types of rocks.

• It marks the beginning of a new era.

• It indicates the presence of water.

What conclusion can be drawn about organisms whose fossils are only found below the blue line?

• They migrated to another region.

• They evolved into new species.

• They went extinct.

• They are still alive today.

How many mass extinction events do scientists believe have occurred?

• Seven

• Five

• Three

• Ten

What should you look for on the graph to identify mass extinction events?

• Peaks in the graph

• Sudden drops in the number of organisms

• Steady lines

• Rising trends

What is the next step after analyzing the dinosaur fossil record?

• Compare fossils with each other

• Map out the five mass extinction events

• Submit the Google Doc

• Read about modern-day organisms

What is the purpose of comparing fossils with modern-day organisms?

• To determine the age of fossils

• To identify extinct plants

• To understand ancient organisms' lifestyles

• To find new species

What is the final part of the investigation?

• Analyzing rock strata

• Reading about dinosaurs

• Comparing fossils with each other

• Submitting the Google Doc

What can be concluded by comparing fossils from different strata?

• Fossils are only found in certain areas.

• All organisms have gone extinct.

• Life on Earth has changed over time.

• The climate has remained constant.

What do mass extinction events in the fossil record indicate?

• Stable environmental conditions

• The emergence of new species

• An increase in population

• A decrease in biodiversity