The word fossil, derived from a Latin word meaning 'something dug up', refers to the preserved remains or traces of ancient life. Careful study of these remains can answer questions about life and evolution, and provide information about the history of Earth itself; for example, revealing that a tropical sea was present where only a desert exists today. This interactive feature explores the kinds of things we can learn from several types of fossils that scientists study. Viewers can see examples of body fossils (shells, bones, etc.), trace fossils (tracks, burrows, etc.), and an example of a fossil which has attributes of both. Educational levels: Middle school, High school, Intermediate elementary
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