600 Million Years in 60 Seconds

Students discover and reinterpret fossil evidence, then make a short video to explain what they’ve learned. 

In teams of three, students are assigned one of ten ‘missions’. During their exhibition visit, students use a movie making app to create a short video about an aspect of Victoria’s evolutionary history.  

In this activity students will   

• Work together in small groups to create a video presentation 
• Read and interpret scientific information 
• Communicate and explain aspects of evolutionary history 

Suggested questions to engage students  

• How can you communicate your key idea in a way that is clear and engaging? 
• What evidence can you find in the gallery that backs up this idea? 
• What communication style best suits your audience? 
• Who will be presenting the information to the camera? 
• What objects or fossils in the gallery do you need to film to support the ideas you present? 

What to do

Download the mission cards and allocate one to each student group.

• 600 Million Years Mission Cards|  930.82 KB .pdf file

Students will need a phone or tablet to create a video on the topic provided.

Instructions for students 

In a team of three, head into the 600 Million Years: Victoria Evolves  exhibition. Your teacher will allocate one mission to your team. Find the location indicated on your “mission map”.

Using your phone or tablet, create a 60-second video incorporating the topic from your mission to inform, entertain and inspire your fellow students. Be creative and have fun!