SIMULATED DINOSAUR EXCAVATION FOR GRADES 3 & 4

There is a large body of literature, which supports the importance and value of small group, student-involved, hands-on science activities. Additionally, the literature confirms that field studies awakens an interest in, and appreciation for, science; provides concrete, first-hand experiences which give direct and personal knowledge of the environment; and develops an acumen and accuracy in observations. Unfortunately, the literature also shows 90% of all science teachers use a textbook 95% of the time, and that most instruction is lecture based. Considering the ever-shrinking school budget, it is not surprising that hands-on, field-based studies are not being conducted. However, with planning and an enthusiastic resolve, a successful field study can be conducted right on the school grounds within a relatively small budget. A simulated dinosaur dig provides the opportunity to illustrate scientific concepts and the work of scientists, improve visual discrimination, and promote team-work. There are also opportunities for multiple classroom extensions into other areas of the curriculum.

A cow, procured from the U of Minnesota, was the "skeleton" used on this dig, but a variety of different kinds of skeletons can be utilized. The skeleton was buried approximately 10-12 inches below the surface. Bones of smaller animals were also included, and some bones were scattered on the surface. There were 8 areas of responsibility: diggers, sifters, wrappers, recorders, reporters and team support. As the day progressed, student teams were rotated through each of the different areas of responsibility. Teachers, parent volunteers, and college students provided necessary supervision and "traffic control". The excavation took place within a grid system set up by the students, and was based on the surface exposure of scattered bones.

In preparation for the dig, teachers read stories and conducted discussions about dinosaur hunters. Dinosaur Worlds: New Dinosaurs New Discoveries by Don Lessem and Graveyards of the Dinosaurs: What it's Like to Discover Prehistoric Creatures by Shelley Tanaka are good examples. Teachers also used a large, 3-D, wooden dinosaur model to explain basic anatomy. Follow-up activities included report writing and oral presentations to other classes.