In this post, I’ll show you how to make simple geologic time scale models that will help students better understand how the fossil record is organized. Learning about fossils is the most favorite of our 3rd grade science units. This lab is part of a complete science unit, Environments, Survival & Fossil Evidence.
Easy Geologic Time Scale Models
One of the concepts that students explore is the relationship between the fossil record and the geologic time scale. These simple models made from Play-Doh give students a visual to help them explain the connection between the geologic time scale and the fossil record and how scientists use the age of the rock layers in which fossils are found to organize the fossil record.
From the fossil record scientists can find patterns and learn how organisms have changed over time.
Teacher tips: I was able to find all of the needed materials at my local dollar store. I placed students in pairs and let them take turns “layering” the Play-Doh and beads.
Materials needed:
- 3 colors of Play-Doh
- colored pony beads
- short, clear plastic cups
- milkshake-size straws
- lab sheet
- crayons or colored pencils
Procedure:
Ask students to make a plan for how they can use the materials they are given to build a model of the geologic time scale. For students who need more assistance, use the following steps as a guided lab.
- Give each student, set of partners, or group three different colors of Play-Doh, a small 6 oz. clear plastic cup, several pony beads in a variety of colors, a plastic spoon, and a wide (milkshake type) straw. Each student will also need a lab sheet.
- Press the first color of Play-Doh into the bottom of the container forming a “rock layer”.
- Press a few beads into the layer close to the edge of the container so they can be seen.
- Continue by pressing the next color of Play-Doh on top of the first layer. Press a few beads into the middle of the second layer close to the edge of the container.
- Repeat with the last layer and press beads into the middle of that layer.
- Next, students use their straws to take a core sample of their “rock layers” by pressing the straw straight downward into the layers. Twist slightly and pull the straw out of the Play-Doh.
- Cut off the extra length of the straw just above the Play-Doh inside it. Gently push a pencil (eraser end first) into the straw to push out the Play-Doh.
- Students draw their models and answer the questions on their lab sheet.
Discussion questions:
Once students have drawn and labeled their geologic time scale models hold a discussion and ask these questions:
- What is the geologic time scale?
- What is the fossil record?
- How are the fossil record and geologic time scale related?
- What do the different colors of Play-Doh represent in your model?
- What do the beads represent?
- Look closely at your models. Which Play-Doh layer represents the oldest rock layer?
- In which layer would the fossils be the oldest?
- What does your core sample show?
- What patterns do scientists look for when studying the fossil record?
Fossil Evidence Lesson Plans
Are you teaching a science unit on Environments, Survival & Fossil Evidence? This complete NGSS aligned 3rd grade science unit gives you 4 full weeks of scripted lesson plans, a student workbook, literacy and math-based science center extension activities, STEM activities, lab experiments, and so much more!
This high quality, resource is available in a digital version with audio lessons and in a money-saving bundle of both formats. Preview Environments, Survival & Fossil Evidence units here.
I hope you’ll consider making these easy geologic time scale models with your students! If you’ve enjoyed this post please share it with your teacher friends and save it on Pinterest!
For more fossil activities, science experiments and lesson plans visit these posts!
Fossil Evidence Activities for 3rd Grade
Environment & Survival 3rd Grade Science Activities
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