Serc: Mn Step: Relative Dating Using "The Block"

This activity involves an innovative strategy for introducing the concept of relative dating using a block of wood that has been painted, damaged, and nailed. The task for students is to analyze the order in which these events happened and to provide their evidence. Ideas for varying the activity to make it more interesting or more challenging are suggested. The author also provides a sequence of what was done to the blocks so teachers can replicate them.