The Lizard Scientists: An Adventure in Herpetology
Scientists in the Field Series
What’s inside...
In this groundbreaking, exceptionally researched installment of the award-winning Scientists in the Field series, discover how lizards rapidly adapt to life in the Caribbean islands, allowing scientists to study Charles Darwin's theory of evolution by natural selection in real time. Award-winning author Dorothy Hinshaw Patent joins forces with scientists/filmmakers Neil Losin and Nate Dappen, whose work is detailed in the Smithsonian Channel documentary 'Laws of the Lizard,' to explore how the small but mighty lizards we call 'anoles' are used by scientists to study basic principles of evolution and ecology. Travel with the team to Florida and the Caribbean as they research how anoles followed similar but independent evolutionary paths on the four major islands of the Greater Antilles (Puerto Rico, Hispaniola, Jamaica, and Cuba). So while anoles on different islands may look like close relatives, they often are not! This is Darwin's principle of natural selection at work. And it makes anoles the perfect subjects for experiments that study how animals adapt to new challenges--such as climate change--in this exciting and timely addition to a celebrated series.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
8-12
Length
80 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Dr. Eric Pianka
Dr. Laurie Vitt
Discussion points
What do you think is the most exciting part about studying lizards and why?
How do the scientists in the book help us understand the importance of lizards in our ecosystem?
What qualities do you think make someone a good scientist, based on what you read about the lizard scientists?
If you could ask the lizard scientists one question, what would it be?
Can you think of ways we can help protect the habitats of lizards in our own community?
Tip: Role play these questions
While discussing the book, show genuine interest in their thoughts and feelings about the adventure of the lizard scientists.
Encourage your child to compare the tasks of the scientists in the book with other kinds of scientists they might know about.
Link discussions to your child’s daily experiences, such as encounters with local wildlife or visits to nature reserves.
Ask your child to draw a lizard or its habitat, using details from the book to fuel their creativity and enhance comprehension.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Exploration
Explanation: The book chronicles the adventures of scientists studying lizards, showcasing their curiosity and relentless pursuit of knowledge.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to explore their surroundings, ask questions, and seek answers, enhancing their understanding and appreciation of the natural world.
Example Lesson: Importance of Teamwork
Explanation: The scientists work together, sharing insights and collaborating to conduct their research effectively.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the value of cooperation and teamwork in achieving common goals, which can be applied in school projects or team sports.
Example Lesson: Respect for Nature
Explanation: The careful and respectful approach the scientists take while handling the lizards emphasizes the importance of respecting wildlife.
Real-World Application: Instills a sense of responsibility towards nature and teaches children how to interact with the environment conscientiously.
Example Lesson: Scientific Method
Explanation: The book details how scientists make observations, form hypotheses, and carry out experiments.
Real-World Application: Provides a basic framework for critical thinking and problem-solving that children can use in academics and daily decision-making.
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: The book highlights the persistence of the scientists as they face various challenges in their research.
Real-World Application: Inspires children to persevere through difficulties, whether in learning new concepts at school or dealing with personal challenges.