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8 questions with a Desert theme plus a full answer key. Perfect for Grade 6 Science.
⬇ Download WorksheetStudents will be able to analyze rock layers, fossils, and geologic evidence to explain Earth's history and the age of rock formations.
Before the worksheet, show students a photo of desert canyon walls with visible rock strata. Ask them which layer they think is oldest and why — this activates the superposition thinking Zoe uses in Q3 and Q5.
- Zoe arrives at a desert canyon on her first morning. She spots three rock layers stacked on top of each other. True or False: The bottom rock layer is the oldest. Explain your answer in one sentence.
- Zoe finds a special object — a flat, shiny fossil pressed into sandstone. Fill in the blank: A fossil found inside a rock layer gives scientists clues about ________ that lived during that time period.
- Zoe studies four desert rock layers labeled A (top), B, C, and D (bottom). Layer D contains ocean-shell fossils. Layer A contains no fossils at all. What does this pattern tell Zoe about how this desert formed over time? Use the word 'superposition' in your answer.
...plus 5 more questions in the full worksheet
Instructions: Read each question carefully and answer using science words and ideas. Write your answer in full sentences unless the question says otherwise.
Standard: NGSS.MS-ESS1-4
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About this Science worksheet for Grade 6
This activity develops students' ability to interpret relative dating through stratigraphic analysis, a critical skill for understanding Earth's history at the middle school level where students transition from observational science to evidence-based reasoning about deep time. Teachers can use this worksheet as a scaffolded introduction to the rock record concept before moving to more complex radiometric dating, having students physically arrange or sketch layers to reinforce the principle of superposition and how sequential deposits reveal chronological sequences.
This printable Science worksheet is designed for Grade 6 students and covers Earth History. The Desert theme keeps kids engaged while they practice essential Science skills. Every worksheet includes a full answer key making it easy for parents and teachers to check work instantly. Aligned to Common Core State Standards (CCSS) for Grade 6 Science. Print-ready at US Letter size. No login required — download and print in seconds.
Last updated: April 2026
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