The Discovery of the Dinosaurs (Marvelous But True, 4)
#4 of 3 in Wonderwaar Series
What’s inside...
The fourth book in a series about scientific wonder follows twelve-year-old Mary Anning as she discovers her first dinosaur skeleton, the first almost complete Ichthyosaurus, while looking for fossils to sell in the early nineteenth century. Despite not attending university, Mary's discoveries contribute significantly to the development of the theory of evolution, making her one of the most important paleontologists in history.
Discussion points
What do you think it was like when dinosaurs roamed the Earth?
If you could meet any dinosaur from the book, which one would it be and why?
How do you think scientists discover dinosaur bones and figure out what dinosaurs looked like?
Can you imagine a world where dinosaurs still existed? What would be different?
What is your favorite fact about dinosaurs that you learned from this book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use visuals from the book to help your child imagine the size and environment of different dinosaurs.
Relate the stories of dinosaur discoveries to modern-day adventures to spark your child’s interest.
Encourage your child to draw their favorite dinosaur or scene from the book to deepen engagement.
Ask your child to explain what they’ve learned to another family member, reinforcing their understanding and confidence.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Curiosity and exploration
Explanation: The narrative follows intrepid explorers discovering dinosaurs, showcasing their curiosity and determination.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to ask questions and explore the world around them, fostering a love for learning and discovery.
Example Lesson: Perseverance in the face of challenges
Explanation: Characters in the book face obstacles during their discoveries but continue to push forward, demonstrating resilience.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the importance of persistence and not giving up when they encounter difficulties, whether in school or in personal endeavors.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and collaboration
Explanation: The discovery of dinosaurs is portrayed as a group effort, emphasizing the importance of working together.
Real-World Application: Highlights the value of cooperating and respecting others’ ideas and perspectives in group settings such as school projects or sports.
Example Lesson: Respect for nature and its history
Explanation: The book's focus on paleontology helps children understand the importance of nature and its historical significance.
Real-World Application: Instills a sense of responsibility and care for the environment and teaches children the importance of preserving historical artifacts and sites.
Example Lesson: Scientific thinking and inquiry
Explanation: The process of discovering and studying dinosaurs introduces children to basic scientific methods and inquiry.
Real-World Application: Encourages a scientific approach to problem-solving and understanding the world, which can be applied in their academic subjects like science and math.