Fossils and Geologic Time

This lesson will clarify the development of the geologic time scale. It will also introduce students to the major time periods in the history of Earth, as well as to the role fossils play in helping us understand this history. This lesson is based on an online booklet that provides an introduction to the study of the history of Earth, published by the U.S. Geological Survey. Using careful analogies and written historical records, the authors help students understand the development of the geologic time scale, including how this depended on gathering evidence and making comparisons. The major time periods in the history of Earth are introduced, as well as fossils and the role they play in helping us understand this history. Educational levels: High school