Lesson Title
Evolution: Evidence of Change
Fossils and Evolution
Subject Area/Grade Level
7th Grade Life Science class
Standards
California Set Standard 3: Evolution
Biological evolution accounts for the diversity of species developed
through gradual processes over many generations. As a basis for
understanding this concept:
3.a. Students know both genetic variation and environmental factors are
causes of evolution and diversity of organisms.
3.c.Students know how independent lines of evidence from geology,
fossils, and comparative anatomy provide the bases for the theory of
evolution.
3.e.Students know that extinction of a species occurs when the environment changes and the adaptive characteristics of a species are
insufficient for its survival.
Time/Student Grouping
5th period
Objective(s)
I will understand the definition of a paleontologist and their importance
as a scientist.
Assessment
Students will be asked what a paleontologist does and what kinds of
fossil formations they might find.
Materials
Journal, calendar, assignment sheet, Fossil Chips Lab Worksheet, Lab
materials (cookies, toothpicks, provided by teacher), writing utensil.
Students will investigate what a paleontologist does in an interactive
activity.
Instructional Strategies
Student Activities
Instructional Practice
Anticipatory Set
Input
Modeling
Checking for Understanding
Guided Practice
Closure
Independent Practice
Students will complete tasks of the routine of class and have the
remainder of the class period to complete the Fossil Chips lab
worksheet.
 Journal is designed to have students get started writing and on task
when the bell rings. Teacher is taking attendance and answering any
student related questions such as if a student was absent.
 Students update the weekly calendar from the front board to
organize and promote time management and planning.)
 The assignment sheet is designed for students to keep track of their
own work and monitor their own grade in the class. This holds the
student accountable for their progress in class.
 Copy Notes:
 What is a Paleontologist?
 Paleontologist is a scientist who specializes in studying fossils.
 Paleontologists dig up bones. You do not inherit nutrients
 Explanation of the notes using examples from a real fossil.
 After the lesson, the teacher will check for understanding.
 Students will be instructed how to complete the Fossil Chips Lab in
Integration
Adaptations
ELL
class as independent practice.
 Closure: Students will be reminded about the homework, when it is
due, studying for Friday’s quiz, and complete the Fossil Chips lab if
necessary.
 Ask questions about the day’s and previous day’s lesson if time
allows.
Students’ creativity from the journal connects with the lesson. Asking
them how their make believe creature was fossilized checks for
understanding while engaging them in the content material.
There are no adaptations for RSP or ELL students for this lesson. It is an
all GATE class.
RSP
GATE
Differentiated Instruction
There is no differentiated instruction.
Reflection
Today was a smooth lesson with no problems of any kind. The lab was
fun for the students and it will be an activity that I replicate in the future.