Name_____________________________ Date __________ Period __________
Relative Dating Model Activity
Relative dating is a way to put events in the order in which they happened. We have discussed
different principles used in relative dating. These include superposition, original horizontality,
lateral continuity, cross cutting relationships, inclusions and faunal succession. In addition the
philosophy of Uniformitarianism, another important idea, developed by Scottish geologist James
Hutton (1726-97), is that the "present explains the past." This means that the same earth processes
that go on today were also at work in the past. Using these principles and your knowledge of rocks
and minerals, your task is to create a 3 dimensional physical model which represents at least 3 of
the principles of relative dating. A physical model is one that we can look at, touch, feel, and take
measurements from. Create the model of a rock formation using any materials you like. Be creative.
For instance you might use rice crispy treats, to represent a sedimentary rock layer. Gummy bears
might represent fossils. Make sure that the layers are labeled in some way.
Write a brief explanation of the sequence of events that occurred which you can “read” from
your rock record. Bring your model to class on Friday, March 1. You will be asked to interpret
another group’s model. Use the space below to make a sketch of what your model will look like.
You may want to use the internet to get ideas for your model.
Agenda – Group Members: ______________________________________________________
Day 1 – Brainstorm ideas and materials you will use with group. You will be choosing 3
principles from the following list to represent in your model.
Superposition
Faunal Succession
Cross-cutting relationship
Inclusion
Lateral continuity
Original horizontality
Day 2 - Bring in materials and make your model
Material for project
Person Responsible
Day 3 - Present your 3D model

Groups will be looking at your model and try to figure out which relative dating
principles it represents
Write a brief explanation of the sequence of events that occurred which you can “read” from
your rock record. You will be asked to interpret another group’s model. Use the space below to
make a sketch of what your model will look like. You may want to use the internet to get ideas for
your model.
Sketch of the Model
Story of Order of Geological Events
(Explanation of formation)
Geologic 3D Model Rubric
Has it done on day it is due
5
4
3
2
1
0
Has distinct layers
5
4
3
2
1
0
Has 4 relative dating principles
5
4
3
2
1
0
Has description of layers & formation
5
4
3
2
1
0
Has the brainstorming sheet filled out
5
4
3
2
1
0
Is creative
5
4
3
2
1
0
Is 3-Dementional
5
4
3
2
1
0
Is easily understood by others
5
4
3
2
1
0
Clear team collaboration
5
4
3
2
1
0
___________ / 40 points