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Have you ever wondered, "What kind of rock do fossils form in?" ...or "Can fossils form in all kinds of rock?"

A fossil is a mark or the remains of a very old animal or plant. Usually you will find fossils in rocks.

Rocks with fossils in them have been hidden under the Earth's surface for many years. Finally, after weathering and erosion, the rocks with fossils in them become visible on Earth's surface.

Remember that usually only the hard parts of an organism change into a fossil.

A fossil forms by an organism being buried by sediment. Over time, the organism's parts are replaced by minerals that were dissolved in water. So, the fossils we see are really mineral deposits, not the real body parts.

Could a fossil be found in igneous rock?

What is igneous rock formed from? (check your answer)

What would happen if an animal was buried by lava.(check your answer)

Could a fossil be found in metamorphic rock?

How does metamorphic rock form? (check your answer)

What would happen if an animal was in a rock that became metamorphic?(check your answer)

Could a fossil be found in sedimentary rock?

How does sedimentary rock form? (check your answer)

What would happen if an animal was in a rock that became sedimentary?(check your answer)

Draw a poster to show the which type of rock in which fossils can form. Explain why they are found in this type of rock! 

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Updated August 18, 2005 by: Glen Westbroek

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