Activity

Students will explore how fossils help scientists understand ancient life, learn about important fossil discoveries in Kenya, and study how their own skeleton supports and protects the body.

Key Facts

• The human skeleton is made up of bones that support, protect, and help the body move.
• Bones grow and develop over time and need nutrients like calcium to stay strong.
• Fossils are preserved remains or traces of plants and animals from long ago.
• Paleontologists study fossils to learn about life millions of years ago.
• Kenya is home to important fossil discoveries found at the National Museums of Kenya.
• Simbakubwa was a giant prehistoric carnivorous mammal discovered in Kenya.
• Girafatitan was one of the largest dinosaurs found in Africa.

Lesson

• Ask: How do scientists know what animals looked like millions of years ago?
• Locate Kenya on a map. East Africa is known as an important region for fossil discoveries. Museums preserve fossils for research and education.
• Watch: N*Gen – Bones and Fossils episode.
• Discuss:
  • Why are bones important?
  • What is a fossil? How are they formed?
• Complete the Bones and Fossils science notebooking activity.

Suggested Hands-On Activities

• Create “x-ray art” of your hand using black paper, 27 sticks or toothpicks, and flour.
• Create your own fossils at home using the instructions found in N*Gen’s Bones and Fossils episode.

Learning Extensions

• Explore Generation Genius: Fossils and Extinction (3-5), Earth’s Landscapes (3-5), and Generation Genius: The Fossil Record (6-8).

Bookmarks