Begin the lesson with an engaging introduction to dinosaurs, highlighting their dominance over 200 million years ago and their diverse characteristics.
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Dinosaurs
Learning Objectives
- Understand that dinosaurs were a diverse group of reptiles that lived over 200 million years ago.
- Identify how scientists use fossils to learn about different types of dinosaurs and their characteristics.
- Recognize the differences in size, diet, and habitat among various dinosaur species.
- Learn about the extinction of dinosaurs and the time period it occurred.
Introduction and Hook
Introduce the concept of fossils and how they provide insights into the lives of dinosaurs and their extinction.
Direct Instruction
Discuss the characteristics of dinosaurs, including their size, diet, and habitats, using examples like Tyrannosaurus rex and Argentinosaurus.
Explain how scientists use fossils to learn about dinosaurs, emphasizing the importance of fossil evidence in understanding dinosaur behavior and extinction.
Guided Exploration
Watch the video 'All About the Dinosaurs' to explore the diverse characteristics and adaptations of dinosaurs from the Triassic to the Cretaceous period.
Engage in a discussion about the different types of dinosaurs and their ecological roles, using the video as a reference.
Hands-On Activity
Conduct the 'Making Fossils' activity where students create their own fossils using plaster and clay, simulating the fossilization process.
Independent Practice
Assign students to research different dinosaur species and present their findings on their size, diet, and habitat.
Check for Understanding
Use the 'All About Fossils' assessment to evaluate students' understanding of fossils and their significance in studying dinosaurs.
Review and Reflection
Facilitate a class discussion on what students have learned about dinosaurs and fossils, encouraging them to reflect on the extinction of dinosaurs.
Assessment and Extension
Conclude the unit with the 'Review – Organisms of the Past' assessment to test comprehension of key concepts related to dinosaurs and fossils.
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