This engaging pack combines our popular History Timeline Notebook with hands-on science and history activities that bring the world of fossils and palaeontology to life. Perfect for Year 3 learners, children will explore how fossils form, discover the work of pioneering fossil hunter Mary Anning, and create their own fossil models while recording their discoveries in their timeline notebook.
Included Resources +
This pack includes seven activity sheets with accompanying lesson plans and a History Timeline Notebook bringing the world of fossils and palaeontology to life through hands-on science, history, art, and maths.
• History Timeline Notebook — interactive notebook to record fossil discoveries and historical timeline
• Identifying Fossils — learn to recognise different types of fossils and what they tell us
• Comparing Fossil Models — explore different fossilisation processes and fossil types
• Creating A Cast Fossil — hands-on activity making your own fossil replica
• Measuring Dinosaurs — apply maths skills to understand the scale of prehistoric creatures
• Mary Anning Timeline — discover the life and achievements of this pioneering palaeontologist
• Coprolite Model — create a model of fossilised dinosaur dung and learn what it reveals
Key Details +
• Year Group: Year 3 (ages 7–8)
• Key Stage: KS2
• Subject: Science, History
• Resource Type: Activity Sheets + Lesson Plans + History Timeline Notebook
• Format: Instant PDF Download
• Number of Activities: 7
Curriculum Alignment +
Aligned to the Year 3 Science National Curriculum. Covers rocks — how fossils are formed when things that have lived are trapped within rock, and recognising that soils are made from rocks and organic matter. Develops understanding of fossilisation, geological time, and palaeontology. History coverage includes the work of Mary Anning as a significant historical figure and pioneer in science. Cross-curricular links to Art & Design (cast fossil making, coprolite model), Maths (Year 3 — measuring and scale using dinosaur dimensions), and English (research and recording).
Teaching Tips +
Creating A Cast Fossil is the standout activity — use air-dry clay and shells or plastic dinosaurs for best results, and allow drying time between sessions. Coprolite Model is a guaranteed engagement hook — children love the "yuck factor" and it opens up excellent discussion about what fossils reveal about diet and behaviour. Measuring Dinosaurs works well outdoors where children can mark out the actual scale of dinosaurs on the playground using chalk and tape measures — a memorable wow moment. Mary Anning Timeline pairs naturally with a discussion about women in science and makes a great link to International Women's Day or Science Week.
