Just how long can a fossil preserve DNA? It seems that DNA becomes unreadable after about 6.8 million years. Learn about the science that helped make this conclusion and the mistakes made along the way in a lesson from a PBS Eons video series.

Concepts

dna, fossils, genetics, archaeology

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Additional Tags

science

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Instructional Ideas

• Create a guided notes document for pupils to complete as they view the video
• Have learners create a timeline illustrating the availability of genetic materials at each time period

Classroom Considerations

• Expects a basic understanding of evolutionary traits

• This video is hosted on YouTube

Pros

• Clear explanations with image support
• Emphasizes new vocabulary using text and color

Cons

• None

Common Core

SL.6.2 SL.7.2 SL.8.2 SL.9-10.2 SL.11-12.2 RST.6-8.7 RST.9-10.7 RST.11-12.7