# Explain how the fossil record provides evidence for evolution.

> WJEC GCSE Biology (Wales) — 2.4.2 Evolution and natural selection · Explain · 4 marks

> Scientists have discovered a series of fossils in rock layers of different ages. The oldest fossils show simpler organisms, whilst the more recent fossils show organisms with increasingly complex characteristics.

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Fossils are the remains or impressions of dead organisms found in rocks that are millions of years old
2. Fossils show that organisms have changed / inherited characteristics have changed over time
3. Natural selection acts on variation so that advantageous alleles are passed to offspring over many generations
4. This gradual change in inherited characteristics over time shown by the fossil record supports evolution / may result in the formation of a new species

## Key terms

- [fossil record](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/fossil-record)
- [evolution](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/evolution)

## Related

- [Revision notes for WJEC GCSE Biology (Wales)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/explain-how-the-fossil-record-provides-b8c1b532) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.