The Data:
Step-by-step guide to data collection
Use the data collection sheets provided to collect data about your sample. Be sure to label what sample number the data is being gathered from (i.e. 3734 – 03.1 J) and the subsample number, on the sheet!
Step 1: Pick a rock from the sample. What kind of rock is it? For help understanding rock types, check out the Devonian Primer.
Step 2: Note its color. Is it relatively light or dark? Use the worksheet to decide if the rock’s color is a 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5.
Step 2: Look for fossils on the rock. If you find one, identify what it is. For help, go to Devonian Primer or Fossil Key)
Step 3: Is the fossil mostly whole or is it broken or covered up? Use the worksheet to decide if the fossil is mostly whole, just a small fragment, or somewhere in between.
Step 4: Measure your fossil. For help see How to Measure.
Step 5: Do you notice anything about the fossil? Does it look like something is living on it or drilled into it? If you notice something like this, record it in your worksheet.
Step 6: If you want, take a picture and record that you did, so you can upload it to the database with your data.
Step 7: Put your data into the Fossil Finders Database!
