The Formation of Fossil Fuels - Earth: The Operators' Manual

Notes from our reviewers

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• Teaching Tips
  A stimulating introduction for deeper exploration into the carbon cycle.
• About the Science
  Accurate and easy-to-follow story of fossil fuel formation, from photosynthesis to geologic transformation into coal, oil, and natural gas. Narrated by geologist, Dr. Richard Alley. Comments from expert scientist: Scientific strengths: It is a very basic and short explanation, in non-technical terms, of how fossil fuels were formed, and why burning them adds, unavoidably, CO2 to the atmosphere. Suggestions: The short film clip does not provide a path for further research, but that can not really be crammed into 2.5 minutes. One can use other resources for that.
• About the Pedagogy
  A good overview of fossil fuel formation that can help set the stage for more detailed activities.
• Technical Details/Ease of Use
  Well-produced, professional segment from an hour-long PBS program.