Choose Learning Type ▼

Guess This Fossil

Activity

Bringing Ancient Life to Light

Have everyone design their own fossil and draw it. Share your drawing with someone and have them create the creature they think made the fossil! Give it a scientific name and a common name and briefly describe its characteristics. Where did it live? What did it eat? How long did it live? *If you have a bigger group you can make a game out of it and try to guess which fossil belongs to which creature*

Science Seed

Fossils do not preserve soft parts like skin or organs, so scientists have to rely on clues like bones, teeth, and imprints to figure out what an ancient creature was like. The shape of a jaw might suggest what it ate, while limb bones can show how it moved. A fossil’s size and structure help scientists guess how big the creature was, how long it lived, and where it might have made its home. By comparing fossils to modern animals, paleontologists can make educated guesses about everything from diet to behavior.

move to the next activity

earn Badges

Badges can be earned through hands-on experiences within each of the 16 branches of science, or “Science Slices.” You can earn a badge in each branch of science by doing four activities in these categories. We also encourage participants to keep a Nature Journal to record their memories, and to express themselves creatively through writing or drawing after each activity. We recommend that each child (and parent if they’d like) write or draw in a journal after each activity, with expectations of your children that match their age (the goal is self-expression, not perfection).

Explore Perez Elementary School

join Families in Nature

It is our vision to inspire all families to fall in love with nature and foster the next generation of conservationists. Becoming a member of Families in Nature will give your family the opportunity to have adventures in nature, experience field science, develop as youth conservation leaders, and make memories that will last a lifetime. Memberships are free for everyone.

Who are we?

Families in Nature works to create opportunities for nature connection with the purpose of sparking a deep love and desire to protect, conserve and restore the environment. Our mission is to connect children and their families to nature and to each other through time spent learning, playing, and volunteering outdoors. It is our vision to inspire ALL families to fall in love with nature and foster the next generation of conservationists.

Perez Elementary School is named in honor of Lance Cpl. Nicholas S. Perez, who gave his life in service to his country. Perez is a supportive learning community with a focus on service. At Perez, we believe effort creates ability and all students will learn at high standards if they are given clear expectations, taught using best practices adapted to their unique needs and provided extra time and resources as needed. Perez students have numerous opportunities to serve their school, community and environment. They receive powerful instruction in the core curriculum areas, as well as in technology, art, music, physical education, and health.

This project was made possible by The Powell Foundation.