Mission 2: Fossil Confusion
This mission brings you back to prehistoric times! Your fellow geologist, Mary, called you to help her with a problem. You must fly to Notch Peak, Utah immediately to lend your knowledge of rocks. Pack your things, including your Geology Journal, and head out. Be sure to use your resources to help you complete your mission.
Begin Your Mission...
Geologist Mary found the fossil shown above while hiking on Notch Peak. It contains the impressions of bivalve shells. However, Mary is unsure of the type of rock the fossils were found in. Your job is to work through the steps below, add information to your Geology Journal and figure out in what type of rock the fossil was made.
Step 1:
You have just arrived at the office of Geologist Mary. Sitting in front of you on the table is the fossil shown above. The first part of your mission is to determine the properties of the rock. Before you begin, review this video to remind you about the properties of rocks. Observe the rock. In your Geology Journal, list as many properties as you can to describe the rock. (Hint...since you cannot touch the rock to observe it closely, I will let you know it is a sedimentary rock!)
Step 2:
Now that you know it is a sedimentary rock, do a little research about the three types of rocks. In your Geology Journal, list the three types of rocks and give a definition for each. Also, give a few examples of each type of rock.
Step 3:
Next, record a sketch of the fossil in your Geology Journal. Be sure to include as many details as you can.
Step 4:
Use what you have learned to determine the type of rock the fossil was formed in. Look at the 5 types of sedimentary rocks. See if any of the descriptions sound like Mary's fossil she found. Remember, the rock was found at Notch Peak, so research that area, too! List your best geological guess about they type of rock it is in your Geology Journal!
Congratulations!!!
You completed your second mission! Mary was very happy to have your expert knowledge to help her identify the rock. You may return home on the next flight! Good luck on your next mission!
