TXESS Revolution

Students compare relative abundances of marine fauna above and below the Cretaceous/Tertiary (K/T) boundary to demonstrate the paleontological evidence that is indicative of a mass extinction event at the K/T boundary. This activity complements two others on the Chicxulub impact site. Taken together, the three activities demonstrate how independent lines of evidence have contributed to the development and acceptance of the K/T extinction/impactor theory.

Key Words: Asteroids; comets; Cretaceous/Tertiary (K/T) boundary; foraminfera; extinction; scientific ocean drilling: Integrated Ocean Drilling Program.

This activity is aligned with the National Science Education Standards and the TEKS (listed). It has been field-tested multiple times and reviewed by a science education curriculum specialist from Texas State University.

TEKS
112.49 (GMO) 2(c,d) 3(a,c,e) 4(a,b) 7(c,d) 12( b)
112.24 (Grade 8) 2(C, D, E) 3(A, C, D, E) 11 (A) 14(B)
(Biology) 2(c,d) 3(a,c)