Geologists are scientists who study, among other things,
rocks. They not only identify types of rocks, but they also
try to determine the rock’s age. In the process of
studying rocks, they often discover fossils embedded in
them. In Virginia, rocks and fossils can be found that date
back to a variety of geologic periods, eras, and epochs.
Geologists document their findings on a geologic map, which
can be used as an interpretive tool.
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In this WebQuest, you will go back in time to discover
the ages of rocks and fossils in Virginia. By exploring
the Web sites provided, you will gather enough information
to write a school newspaper or magazine article about the
geology of Virginia.
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Two days to research and write article
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As you conduct your research, write the answers to the
questions that follow. Keep in mind that the answers may
be found on one or more of the Web sites listed.
Questions about Virginia's Rocks and Fossils
- According to geologists, when does a rock actually form?
- What era do most of the fossils found in the Valley
and Ridge province come from?
- During what periods did coal form in the Appalachian
Plateau?
- What is Virginia's state fossil? What epoch does it
date back to?
- How did geologists determine the approximate ages of
rocks before radiometric dating was developed?
Next, you will use the information you have gathered to
write a school newspaper or magazine article about the geology
of Virginia—specifically discussing the types and ages
of rocks and fossils located in the state. You should include
a geologic time scale or a geologic map in your article.
Divide your article by physiographic province to make it
easier to understand.
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Use these Web links to research the information you need
to complete this WebQuest.
Review the rubric to understand how you will be scored
on this WebQuest.
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In this WebQuest you have used the Internet to research
information on Virginia's rocks, fossils, and the ages of
each. You answered a set of questions designed to point
out key ideas of the WebQuest, and used the information
you gathered to write an article about Virginia's geologic
past.
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