======Making Fossils======


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**Materials: **{{$demo.materials_description}}\\
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**Alternative titles:** Plaster Fossil Casting
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====Summary====                   
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====Procedure====  
  -Prepare a workspace covered with newspaper.
  -Press a shell, leaf, pine cone, or small object into a piece of plasticine to create an impression.
  -Mix plaster of paris in a disposable tub until smooth and fairly thick.
  -Pour the plaster into the plasticine mold, covering the impression.
  -Allow the plaster to dry completely.
  -Remove the hardened plaster cast from the plasticine to reveal the fossil replica.
  -Optionally, paint the dried plaster fossil with acrylic paints to highlight details.



====Links==== 

How to make a fossil with Plaster of Paris - Milni: 
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Make a Dinosaur Fossil - Nanogirl's Great Science Adventures - Dr Michelle Dickinson: 
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📄 Making Fossils - preproom.org: [[https://www.preproom.org/practicals/pr.aspx?prID=1048]]\\

====Variations====
  *Use small toy dinosaurs or animal figures for fun fossil impressions.
  *Experiment with different plant types (thick leaves, pine needles, flowers) to compare fossil detail.
  *Create a “fossil dig” activity by burying finished plaster fossils in sand for students to excavate.



====Safety Precautions====
  *Wear gloves when handling plaster of paris.
  *Wear safety glasses to protect against splashes.
  *Do not pour leftover plaster down sinks; allow it to harden and dispose of it in the trash.
  *Work in a well-ventilated area and avoid inhaling plaster dust.




====Questions to Consider====
  *How does plaster of paris represent natural sediment in fossil formation? (It hardens around the object just like sediments solidify into rock.)
  *Why do shells and sturdy leaves make better fossils than thin or flat objects? (They create clearer, deeper impressions.)
  *What differences might you see between natural fossils and your plaster fossils? (Natural fossils may contain mineral replacement, fine details, or be part of layered rock.)
  *Why are fossils important to scientists? (They provide evidence of past life, environments, and evolution.)