Interview a paleontologist

What can we use if we don't have sticky notes, a timer, or a notebook?

Use folded paper or index cards to order questions instead of sticky notes, your phone's clock or alarm for timing practice instead of a separate timer, and a digital document or a single sheet of paper with the Answers, New words, and Follow-up headings in place of a notebook.

What should we do if the paleontologist cancels, the call has bad audio, or I feel too nervous during the interview?

Have your adult help reschedule or switch the agreed method (video call, phone, or email) as step 2 and step 6 suggest, test audio beforehand and be ready five minutes early, and use your timed practice and the opening line 'your name and one short sentence about why you are curious about fossils' to calm nerves.

How can we adapt the number of questions and note-taking for younger or older kids?

Younger kids can prepare 3–5 simple questions on sticky notes and have an adult write clear notes or draw answers in the notebook headings, while older kids can research longer, write 8–12 detailed questions, time themselves with the timer during practice, and take fuller notes under Answers and New words.

How can we extend or personalize the finished interview before sharing on DIY.org?

Turn the notebook Answers and New words into an illustrated one-page summary or short recorded recap, include the paleontologist's fun tip or book/website recommendation from step 14, and add photos or a short reflection in the Follow-up section before posting on DIY.org.