Why are dinosaurs extinct?
Writing Activity Read What Happened to Patrick’s Dinosaurs? by Carol Carrick as a class. Then discuss possible reasons why the dinosaurs may have become extinct. The Univeristy of Bristol web site features a fun and comprehensive set of pages covering 101 Theories About Dinosaur Extinction (some possible and some fanciful). Following the discussion, ask students to write their own theory (could be humorous or realistic) as a story. Make Your Own “Fossil” Imprint Discuss the difference between a fossil remain (when part or all of a living thing becomes a fossil) and an imprint (an impression left behind by a living thing that becomes a fossil, like a foot print). To help students understand the concept of an imprint, give each student a small ball of play dough or clay. Hand out an object to each student to press into the clay or dough to create an impression. Shells, chicken bones, plastic fish, plastic insects, or even plastic all work well. Then set the impressions aside to dry. Crea
