T. Rex Is King: Cretaceous Life (Awesome Ancient Animals)
Awesome Ancient Animals Series
on Goodreads (5)
What’s inside...
In 'T. Rex Is King: Cretaceous Life (Awesome Ancient Animals),' author Dougal Dixon takes readers on a prehistoric journey to explore the diverse and fascinating creatures that roamed the Earth during the Cretaceous period. The book focuses on the Tyrannosaurus Rex, one of the most iconic and formidable dinosaurs, and delves into its biology, behavior, and environment. Dixon provides insights into the T. Rex's role as a top predator and its interactions with other species. Alongside the T. Rex, the book introduces a variety of other ancient animals that lived during the same era, painting a vivid picture of the Cretaceous ecosystem. With engaging text and detailed illustrations, Dixon aims to educate and captivate readers with the wonders of ancient life and the evolutionary marvels that dominated the planet millions of years ago.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-9
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think it was like to live during the time of the T. Rex?
Can you imagine how the T. Rex used its senses to survive? What senses do you think were most important?
Why do you think the T. Rex is called the king of the Cretaceous period?
If you could ask a T. Rex one question, what would it be and why?
How do you think the other animals felt living around the T. Rex?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to compare the life of the T. Rex with that of other animals in the book to enhance understanding of the ecosystem.
Ask them to draw their favorite scene from the book, then discuss why they chose that particular scene.
Create a fun quiz based on the facts from the book to make learning more interactive and exciting.
Discuss the illustrations and ask your child what they can infer about the habitat and lifestyle of the T. Rex from the visuals.
Prompt your child to think critically by asking them how they think the story of the T. Rex would change if it existed in today's world.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Collaboration
Explanation: The narrative illustrates how different Cretaceous creatures, including T. Rex, had to cooperate with each other to survive the harsh prehistoric environment.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by working together in group activities at school or in sports, learning that teamwork can lead to success in accomplishing common goals.
Example Lesson: Adaptability
Explanation: Through the story, readers see how dinosaurs adapted to their changing environment, showcasing their resilience.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to be flexible and adapt to changes such as moving to a new school or dealing with changes at home, understanding that adaptation is a key skill for overcoming challenges.
Example Lesson: Respect for Nature
Explanation: The book demonstrates the interdependence of creatures in the Cretaceous period and the impact they had on their ecosystem.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to be mindful of their environment, stressing the importance of preserving nature for future generations.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Learning
Explanation: The detailed descriptions of Cretaceous life spark curiosity about science and the natural world.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to explore and ask questions about the world around them, fostering a lifelong love for learning and discovery.
Example Lesson: Understanding Prehistoric Life
Explanation: The book provides scientifically accurate information about dinosaurs and their era, helping children understand the past.
Real-World Application: This knowledge helps kids appreciate history and science, potentially inspiring future educational pursuits in these fields.