Fossils

Have you ever imagined yourself as a paleontologist? Digging up dinosaurs bones from deep beneath the ground? Most of your children have. They are very excited as we begin our dinosaur unit. Last week many fossils (and replicas) were spread throughout the room. The children acted as true scientists as they drew observational sketches and took notes about what they drew. At the end of the two sessions, we held a scientific meeting. The scientists shared their findings and made theories about what they noticed.

This week, we will learn that a fossil is the "preserved remains of plant or animal life." Together we will read part of Aliki's book, "Fossils Tell of Long Ago." Finally the children will create their own "amber fossils." We will go outside to find artifacts. We will mix gelatin with warm water and place the artifact inside. The "fossils" will harden and the children will be excited to show you the results.

P.S. The children will know that it takes much, much, much, much, much, much, much, much longer for a real fossil to be formed. :o)