Life Through Time: The 700-Million-Year Story of Life on Earth (DK Panorama)
#1 in DK Panorama Series
on Goodreads (58)
What’s inside...
Life Through Time explores the origins of species that still exist today in early fish, amphibians, birds, reptiles, and mammals. It takes readers through the years of dinosaurs and megafauna up to the appearance of our first human ancestors around six million years ago, to the evolution of hunter-gathering Homo sapiens in the Ice Age and the first civilizations. Perfect for children and parents to read together and discover the incredible story of life on our planet. Open the book and let the 700-million-year journey begin!
Discussion points
What do you think it was like for animals living millions of years ago?
How do you think the Earth has changed since the time of the dinosaurs?
Why do you think some animals went extinct while others survived?
Can you imagine what future creatures might look like?
Which time period from the book would you visit if you had a time machine, and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Show genuine interest in your child's responses to encourage deeper thinking.
Use the book’s illustrations to help visualize different eras and facilitate discussion.
Relate discussion to current environmental topics to make connections with the present day.
Encourage creative thinking by asking your child to draw their favorite creature or habitat from the book.
Ask follow-up questions based on your child’s responses to promote extended conversation.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding the concept of time and change.
Explanation: The book details the progression of life on Earth from simple organisms to complex beings, illustrating the vast changes over millions of years.
Real-World Application: Children can grasp the importance of patience and the natural evolution of processes, learning that significant change takes time, whether in nature or personal growth.
Example Lesson: Value of biodiversity.
Explanation: The book showcases various life forms and how they've adapted over time, highlighting the role of biodiversity in maintaining ecological balance.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to respect and protect different life forms they encounter, understanding that each plays a critical role in our ecosystem.
Example Lesson: Impact of humans on Earth.
Explanation: The later sections discuss human evolution and the subsequent impact on the planet, prompting reflection on human actions.
Real-World Application: Children can learn about the consequences of their actions on the environment and be motivated to practice sustainable habits like recycling and conserving water.
Example Lesson: Scientific curiosity and discovery.
Explanation: The book dives into scientific theories and discoveries about life's origins and developments, sparking curiosity.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to explore science and nature, engage in experiments, and possibly pursue scientific education or careers in the future.