This lesson demonstrates how scientists analyze microfossil (foraminifera) data to interpret climate change through geologic history. Data-driven activities can help students enhance their critical thinking and problem-solving skills as they examine the data sets to draw conclusions.
This lesson can be conducted as a Claim Evidence and Reasoning (CER) lesson. Students are learning how fossils can be a source of indirect data related to historic atmospheric conditions to better understand how Earth’s climate changes over time. This fossil evidence corroborates data obtained from ice cores, rock samples, and other sources of data.
This lesson includes 2 versions. Each version contains teacher instructions and student resources needed to complete the activities.
Version 1 – for use in the classroom with students in small groups
Version 2 – for use with students online/virtual classroom OR as an independent assignment in the classroom.
