Pterosaur Trouble (Tales of Prehistoric Life)
#2 of 3 in Tales Of Prehistoric Life Series
What’s inside...
In the Tales of Prehistoric Life series, the book features lifelike, computer-generated illustrations of dinosaurs, including a dramatic story of Quetzalcoatlus, a giant pterosaur. The story follows Quetzalcoatlus as he searches for breakfast and encounters a pack of aggressive Saurornitholestes. Despite his size, he struggles to fend them off and eventually flies away to safety. The book, created by Daniel Loxton, is based on thorough research and includes a discovery of a Quetzalcoatlus leg bone with evidence of a Saurornitholestes attack. It also provides background information on the creatures involved, making it a valuable resource for young dinosaur enthusiasts and older children interested in prehistoric life.
Discussion points
What do you think it was like for the pterosaurs to fly around during the prehistoric times?
How do you think the pterosaurs felt when they encountered a problem? What would you do if you were in their situation?
Why do you think teamwork was important for the pterosaurs?
Can you imagine any modern animals that remind you of the pterosaurs? What similarities and differences do they have?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to compare the pterosaurs’ adventures with their own experiences to personalize the story.
Ask your child to draw their favorite scene or pterosaur from the book, then discuss why they chose that particular moment or character.
Use expressive voices for different characters while reading aloud to make the story more dynamic and engaging.
Create a simple quiz or trivia based on the book to challenge their comprehension and make the discussion more interactive.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Collaboration
Explanation: The book showcases pterosaurs working together to overcome obstacles, highlighting the value of cooperation.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by working collaboratively with their peers in school projects or in sports, fostering a spirit of teamwork.
Example Lesson: Adaptability
Explanation: Pterosaurs adapt to various challenges in their environment, teaching kids the importance of being flexible and resilient.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to adapt to changes, such as moving to a new school or adjusting to a new sibling, by remembering how the pterosaurs successfully navigated through different situations.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Learning
Explanation: The curiosity of the young pterosaurs leads them to explore and learn, emphasizing the importance of inquisitiveness.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to explore their interests and ask questions, whether in academic subjects or in learning new hobbies, mirroring the explorative spirit of the pterosaurs.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: Throughout the book, pterosaurs face several problems that they solve creatively, showcasing critical thinking skills.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to think critically and solve problems they encounter, be it in their homework, in resolving conflicts with friends, or in other everyday challenges.
Example Lesson: Respect for Nature
Explanation: The story’s setting in the prehistoric world fosters a respect for nature and its ancient creatures.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and care for the environment around them, understanding the importance of all forms of life on Earth.