Become a Dinosaur Expert

by

Linda Willert

 

| Introduction | Task | Resources | Process | Assessment | Conclusion |

Introduction
What are the largest reptiles that ever lived? You will learn about them on this exciting adventure.

The Task
You are about to become a dinosaur expert on four different dinosaurs. You will use the facts you learn to become an author and illustrator of a book for young children.

You will:

• research three questions about each of your four dinosaurs
• write one sentence about each of the questions
• draw or print out a picture of your dinosaur
• add color and sentences to your pictures
• design a cover for your book
• read your booklet to a first grader

Resources

• You may use books that you find in the book corner about dinosaurs
• You may use the internet site called Zoom Dinosaurs.com located at http://www.zoomdinosaurs.com/subjects/dinosaurs/
• You may use the encyclopedia
• You may use books you have at home

The Process

1. First you will join a group of 2, 3, or 4 people who have picked the same dinosaur as you.
2. Once you are in your group you need to find information at Zoom Dinosaurs.com about your dinosaur (or you may use other resources) that will answer at least three of the following questions:

   • What did your dinosaur eat?
   • Did your animal walk on two legs or four legs?
   • What size is your dinosaur?
   • Does your dinosaur move slowly or is it fast?
   • Does your dinosaur have any unusual features like horns or plates?

3. Take notes on your dinosaur that answer the questions in item #2 on the form I give you. Next, with your partners, write one factual sentence about each answer that you found information on. You will need to write at least three sentences but you may do more.
4. You will need a picture of this dinosaur to go with your sentences. You may print one out if it is available or you may draw your own.
5. You will repeat this process for each of the other dinosaurs that you have chosen so you have at least four pages about different dinosaurs that we will make into a book.
6. Then, design a cover for your book, complete with the title and your name as the author.
7. When our books are complete we will read them to the first grade students.

Assessment
I will look through your books for accuracy and decide if you have completed the assignment as best that you could.

Conclusion
By completing this project you will have learned to use an internet site to find research information. You will have authored and illustrated a nonfiction piece of writing. You will have read this information to other students.