Fossils and Evidence of Past Life — Answer Key
Part A: Fill in the Blank
Write the missing word or number on each line.
1. In Grade 3 science, a scientist who studies fossils is called a paleontologist.
Paleontologists are scientists who study fossils to learn about life from long ago.
2. In Grade 3 science, paleontologists use small brushes and picks to gently remove rock from bones.
Small picks and brushes help paleontologists clear rock without breaking fragile fossils.
3. In Grade 3 science, fossils are carefully wrapped in plaster jackets for safe travel to labs.
Plaster jackets protect heavy fossils from cracking while they travel from dig site to lab.
4. In Grade 3 science, a place where paleontologists search for fossils is called a dig site.
A dig site is the chosen location where paleontologists carefully excavate fossils.
5. In Grade 3 science, by studying fossils, paleontologists learn about Earth's ancient life.
Fossils reveal ancient plants and animals, helping scientists piece together Earth's past.
6. In Grade 3 science, fossils help paleontologists see how species have changed over time.
Comparing fossils from different ages shows species changed in shape and size over time.
7. In Grade 3 science, the deeper a rock layer is, the older the fossils inside usually are.
Sediment layers stack with oldest at the bottom, so deeper fossils are usually older.
8. In Grade 3 science, paleontologists write notes and take photos to record each fossil's position.
Photos and careful notes preserve a fossil's exact location, which helps later research.
9. In Grade 3 science, museum exhibits show fossils so the public can learn about ancient life.
Museums share fossils with the public so everyone can explore and enjoy Earth's history.
Part B: Matching
Match each item on the left to the correct answer on the right.
1. Match each item to its correct answer.
Paleontologist
→ Scientist who studies fossils
Scientist who studies fossils
Dig site
→ Place where fossils are excavated
Place where fossils are excavated
Plaster jacket
→ Wrap that protects fossils
Wrap that protects fossils
Rock layer
→ Stack that shows fossil age
Stack that shows fossil age
Each term has a specific job: scientist, location, protection, and time record in fossil work.