Age and Grade Requirements
- Age: 5-6 years old
- Grade: Kindergarten
Goals
By the end of this unit study, students will be able to:
- Explore the fascinating world of dinosaurs and prehistoric life.
- Understand basic facts about different types of dinosaurs.
- Develop creativity through dinosaur-themed arts and crafts activities.
- Enhance language skills through storytelling and discussions.
- Gain exposure to basic concepts of paleontology, science, and history.
Schedule (5 Days)
Day 1: Introduction to Dinosaurs
- Introduction to the concept of dinosaurs and their extinction
- Identify and discuss different types of dinosaurs
- Arts and crafts: Create “Dinosaur Collage” using pictures from magazines
Day 2: Dinosaur Characteristics
- Focus on dinosaur characteristics: Discuss size, shape, and features
- Learn about herbivores and carnivores
- Science activity: Match dinosaurs to their habitats
Day 3: Dinosaur Discovery
- Explore famous dinosaurs: Discuss T-Rex, Triceratops, and more
- Engage in a dinosaur dig simulation activity
- Arts and crafts: Create dinosaur fossils using salt dough
Day 4: Dinosaur Stories and Myths
- Focus on storytelling: Share and create dinosaur-themed stories
- Learn about myths and misconceptions about dinosaurs
- Reading a related storybook
Day 5: Dinosaur Art and Culmination
- Engage in dinosaur-themed art activities (e.g., painting, drawing)
- Culmination activity: Create a class “Dinosaur Museum” with students’ artwork and facts
Recommended Books (with Amazon Links)
- “How Do Dinosaurs Say Good Night?” by Jane Yolen Amazon Link
- “Dinosaurs, Dinosaurs” by Byron Barton Amazon Link
- “National Geographic Kids: Dinosaurs” by Kathleen Weidner Zoehfeld Amazon Link
Recommended Video Links
- The Kiboomers: “Dinosaur Song” YouTube Link
- StoryBots: “Tyrannosaurus Rex” YouTube Link
- Pinkfong: “Dinosaur Songs” YouTube Link
Arts and Crafts Activity
Create “Dinosaur Fossils”: Provide salt dough and dinosaur-shaped toys to make imprints and create fossils.
Science Activity
“Dinosaur Habitat Match”: Match dinosaurs to their appropriate habitats, discussing their preferences and adaptations.
Culmination Activity
Create a class “Dinosaur Museum” where students’ dinosaur artwork and facts are displayed, allowing them to showcase their understanding of different dinosaur species.
Bible Connection
Discuss the concept of creation and the diversity of life as mentioned in the Bible, exploring passages that emphasize God’s role as the Creator of all living things and the lessons that can be drawn from the study of creatures like dinosaurs (e.g., Genesis 1:20-25, Job 12:7-10).