Objectives:
- Demonstrate general and specific knowledge of
dinosaurs.
- Identify the different characteristics of
dinosaurs.
- Create big book on adopted dinosaur.
Key Words: herbivore, carnivore, omnivore
TimeLine: 3-4 class periods
Materials: Internet, worksheet, desktop
publishing (PrintShop), construction paper, markers, crayons, glue.
Procedures:
- Give each student a
KWL chart. Ask the class to think about what they know and what
they would like to know about dinosaurs. Have the students complete the
chart as a pre-writing activity.
- Inform the students that they will now be
traveling back in time to “The Age of Dinosaurs” to learn more about how
dinosaurs looked and lived. To help them go back in time they are going
to be reading “The
Magic School in the Time of Dinosaurs” by Joanna Cole.
(Choral reading)
- As the students read the story discuss the
different prehistoric periods and the evolution of different dinosaurs.
Have the students note some interesting facts.
- After the class has finish reading the story,
discuss some of the interesting facts they learned.
- Make sure to discuss the differences and
similarities among dinosaurs. Discuss what are an herbivore, carnivore
and omnivore?
- Inform the class that they are now ready to choose
their own dinosaur to adopt.
- Explain to the students that they must first
choose a dinosaur.
- Direct each student to choose his or her favorite
dinosaur. Have the students search various reference books or suggested
Internet sites.
- Provide each student a copy of the
adoption sheet. Explain to
the class that before they can adopt their dinosaur they must first
complete the adoption sheet.
- Have the students visit
Zoom
Dinosaurs to research their dinosaurs.
- After the students have completed their adoption
sheet they are to begin their Dino Big Book.
- Using PrintShop or other desktop publishing
software have the students create one page for each section of their
adoption sheet. (six total pages)
- Have the students create a book cover using
construction paper and markers /crayons. Students can also print
pictures from the Internet to decorate their Big Book. Bind the book
together using staples, tape or yarn.
- Showcase all completed book in a classroom library
section.
Assessment: Big Book Rubric
Extension Activity:
Have students share their big books with younger
students in the media center.
Suggested Web Links:
Online
Dinosaur Adoption Encyclopedia Britannica dinosaur activity