Boy, Were We Wrong About Dinosaurs!

Definitely for upper-elementary and older, based on concepts, word count and vocabulary. Dinosaurs are fascinating. That may be the only idea unchanged about dinos over time. This book looks at our theories and understanding of dinosaurs from ancient civilizations to present day. I appreciate that the book leaves the future open to new discoveries. Were the people who had old ideas stupid? Not at all! The point of the book is to present past and current ideas, as well as encourage our young ones to actively question and discover.

Most "science" books for small kids just consist of teaching them a series of facts that are true. This book teaches them HOW science has changed people's understanding of dinosaurs over time, as new evidence corrects old ideas. And it does it in a simple structure -- "people thought x because of y, but then scientists discovered z" -- that is accessible to quite small children (though some of the vocab may challenge the youngest).A++ book. I even got several extra copies to hand out to my kid's friends whenever it comes up.

My kindergarten students enjoyed this book. I learned a few things, too! I’m glad I bought it. It added interest to our dinosaur unit.

Came in perfect condition. And my children enjoyed the story. It really helped them to begin thinking like scientists.

I purchased this book for primary teachers for use in their classrooms, and not necessarily for teaching about dinosaurs. It seemed to be equally as suited to an examination of the nature of science and how scientists "operate". Every page holds opportunities to describe how scientific ideas change as new information is gathered, and to stress that being "wrong" is a normal part of scientific discovery. Teachers can also ask students to point out the evidence that scientists used to modify early theories about dinosaurs. It can be emphasized that although the author uses the term "guess" several times, coming to conclusions based on observations is not guessing, and that modifying ideas after gathering additional data is acceptable and desirable.

I liked the idea of science being adaptable and how many ideas can change over time. Few things are set in stone.

This book was for my 6 year old grandson, who LOVES dinosaurs. I was intrigued by the description, as I want him to read, but to also not take everything he reads as being a fact. This book got him to thinking about what he has been told about dinosaurs and that we still have a lot to learn. Excellent book.

The students have really learned a lot from this book

Great for my nephew

my grandson will love it