Identify and sort fossils with a hands-on, no-prep Types of Fossils Activity.
No Prep Types Of Fossils Activity
Looking for a hands-on way to help your students learn the different types of fossils? This no-prep types of fossils activity is just the resource to help you out! With clear, high-quality fossil photographs and simple sorting instructions, your learners will dive into identifying and categorizing real-world fossil examples.
Designed for 3rd and 4th grade science lessons, this fossils activity supports students as they explore mold fossils, cast fossils, trace fossils, and body fossils. It’s a great way to reinforce science vocabulary while encouraging observation and classification skills.
Printable Fossil Sort
This printable fossil sort includes everything you need to start—just print, cut, and go! Students will examine photo cards of real fossils and decide which category each one fits into:
- Mold Fossils – Impressions left behind in sediment
- Cast Fossils – Fossils formed when a mold fills in
- Trace Fossils – Footprints, burrows, or other evidence of lif
- Body Fossils – Actual remains like bones, teeth, or shells
The set includes:
- 24 photo-based fossil sort cards
- 4 labeled sorting mats
- Teacher answer key for easy review or assessment
This engaging fossil sort works well for science centers, small group work, or as a review before an assessment.
Download Your Fossil Sorting Activity
Ready to dig into fossil science? This fossil sorting activity is available as a printable PDF or as an editable Google Slides resource file. To get your copy, click the dropdown arrow on the download button and select your preferred file type.
This resource was created by Kaylyn Chupp, a teacher in Florida and Teach Starter Collaborator.
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