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Geologic Time Scale Activity

Introduction

Understanding geologic time is critical to relating events in Earth’s history to those of today. Scientists use several forms of the geologic time scale to classify the age of objects and to become familiar with other events occurring simultaneously.

Materials

If you would like to create your geologic time scale by hand, you will need the materials listed.

Note: There are alternative procedures that do not require these materials.

Adding machine paper, or pieces of paper taped together to form a continuous line

ruler or meter stick

tape

colored pencils, crayons, or markers

digital camera, mobile device, or laptop camera to take a photograph of your time scale

Procedures:

Cut a piece of adding-machine tape approximately 4.6 meters long or attach pieces of paper in a continuous line using tape so it is approximately 4.6 meters long.

Tape the ends of your paper onto your table so it is easier to measure and label.

Label your paper “Geologic Time Scale” at the top left.

At the top right of your paper, include the following scale:

Starting from the left side of the paper, measure 5 centimeters to the right and draw a vertical line. Label the line “today”.

Plot each era, period, and important event on the paper using the scale provided and Table 1 below.

When you have completed your geologic time scale model, take an image of it and place it into this document for your instructor to view.

Procedures without materials:

There are many different types of models. A timeline is one way to represent the geologic time scale, but there are other ways as well. For example, an organization chart can show the progression of time to an approximate scale.

Use the chart below to create your geologic time scale model. You may delete sections, add sections, and change the size of sections according to the approximate length of time you want to represent. A section of the geologic time scale is started below.

Table 1

Reflection Questions

How long (in centimeters and years) was the Precambrian period compared to the rest of the scale?

How many years and “centimeters” of time separated the dinosaurs and humans on Earth?

How many years and centimeters of time passed before life appeared on Earth?

For how many years of geologic time have humans existed?

Did dinosaurs exist at the same time as mammals? Explain your answer using the geologic time scale.

What is the purpose of making a geologic time line? How do geologic timelines help scientists?