What Can Fossil Layers Tell Us?

NGSS Phenomena:
The diagram below shows fossils found in three layers of sedimentary rocks, A, B, and C. The layers have not been overturned. A key is provided to identify the fossils.
NGSS Phenomena: 3 layers of dirt have different fossils. The top Layer, labeled A, contains Acanthoscaphites and Meekoceras. The middle layer, labeled B, contains Neospirifers and Spirifers. The bottom layer has Spirifers, Neospirifers, and Crinold Stems.

1. Use your knowledge of the fossil record to explain why one layer is older than the others. Then, analyze and interpret the data to determine which two rock layers are most similar and why?

2. Identify one organism that has gone extinct. Use evidence from the fossil record shown above to explain how you know.

3. Identify two organisms that existed together at the same time period.

4. Which layer of rock contains the oldest fossils?

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  • LS4.A: Evidence of Common Ancestry and Diversity

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  • Patterns

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