Prehistoric Actual Size
#2 in Actual Size Series
on Goodreads (398)
What’s inside...
This book provides an 'actual size' look at the prehistoric world, allowing readers to come face-to-face with awe-inspiring creatures such as the ten-foot-tall terror bird, the largest meat eater ever, a millipede over six feet long, and a dinosaur smaller than a chicken. The book includes detailed illustrations and two dramatic gatefolds to showcase these incredible animals.
Discussion points
What do you think it would be like to live during prehistoric times? How would your day be different?
Which prehistoric animal in the book fascinated you the most and why?
How do you think these animals have adapted to their environments?
If you could meet any of the animals in the book, which one would you choose and what would you ask them?
What have you learned about the size and scale of these prehistoric creatures compared to humans or animals today?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in the world of these giant creatures by asking them to describe a day in their life if they lived alongside prehistoric animals.
Highlight the illustrations of the animals in actual size and discuss how these sizes would look in your own home or neighborhood to provide tangible context.
Ask your child to draw their favorite prehistoric animal and explain their choice, fostering a deeper connection and understanding of the creature.
Compare the prehistoric animals to modern animals your child might be familiar with to help them grasp the evolution and adaptations over time.
Use the book as a springboard to explore other topics related to prehistoric times such as habitats, food chains, and extinction, keeping the conversation educational yet engaging.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding Scale and Measurement
Explanation: The book uses real-size illustrations of prehistoric creatures to teach kids about scale and measurement.
Real-World Application: Children can apply these concepts by comparing sizes of objects around them, enhancing their spatial awareness and mathematical reasoning.
Example Lesson: Appreciation for Paleontology
Explanation: By presenting facts about prehistoric creatures, the book sparks curiosity about paleontology and ancient life.
Real-World Application: Kids might develop a keen interest in science and history, possibly participating in related projects at school or visits to museums.
Example Lesson: Biodiversity Awareness
Explanation: The variety of creatures displayed in the book highlights the concept of biodiversity through time.
Real-World Application: This can lead children to value and respect the diversity in the natural world, promoting environmentally conscious behaviors.
Example Lesson: Learning to Compare and Contrast
Explanation: Children learn to compare and contrast the features of different prehistoric animals.
Real-World Application: This skill can be used in academic settings to enhance comprehension and critical thinking, and also in making everyday choices and decisions.