What Happened to the Dinosaurs?
Collins big cat. Topaz, band 13 Series
on Goodreads (3)
What’s inside...
Build your child's reading confidence at home with books at the right level. 'What Happened to the Dinosaurs' investigates why these huge creatures disappeared. The important question, 'How do we know they existed?' is answered with a clear timeline of images. Various theories are suggested, which support knowledge and understanding of climate change, volcanoes, asteroids and evolution of the animals which did survive. Topaz/Band 13 books offer longer and more demanding reads for children to investigate and evaluate. Text type - An information book. The response page summarises the main theories and could support a presented talk. Curriculum links - Science: Living things in their environment. This book has been quizzed for Accelerated Reader.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-9
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think life was like for dinosaurs before they disappeared?
If you could meet a dinosaur, which one would you want to meet and why?
How do you think the disappearance of dinosaurs has changed our world today?
What do you think we can learn from studying dinosaurs?
How do you feel when you think about the fact that dinosaurs once roamed the Earth?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by asking about their favorite dinosaur before diving into deeper questions.
Share your own thoughts and excitement about dinosaurs to spark their interest.
Use illustrations in the book to help explain complex ideas like extinction and evolution.
Encourage them to imagine creatively by asking what they would do if they lived in the time of dinosaurs.
Validate their feelings and thoughts, whether they're fascinated or scared about the idea of huge creatures like dinosaurs.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Learning
Explanation: The book follows a young protagonist exploring different theories about dinosaur extinction, promoting a sense of inquiry.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to ask questions and seek answers about the world around them, fostering a lifelong love for learning.
Example Lesson: Critical Thinking
Explanation: As the protagonist evaluates various extinction theories, children learn to analyze information and differentiate between possibilities.
Real-World Application: Helps children develop the ability to think critically and make informed decisions in daily situations.
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: The story shows the protagonist persistently looking for answers, despite challenges.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the value of persisting through difficulties to achieve their goals, be it in academics or personal endeavors.
Example Lesson: Open-mindedness
Explanation: The book presents multiple perspectives on what happened to the dinosaurs, encouraging respect for different viewpoints.
Real-World Application: Prepares children to be open to diverse perspectives and ideas, enhancing social interactions and understanding in a multicultural world.
Example Lesson: Scientific Interest
Explanation: By delving into scientific theories and discoveries about dinosaurs, the book sparks interest in science and natural history.
Real-World Application: Motivates children to explore scientific subjects and consider future educational paths or careers in science-related fields.