Let's learn a bit more about velociraptors!
Velociraptors were small to medium-sized dromaeosaurid dinosaurs that lived during the Late Cretaceous period, approximately 99 to 65 million years ago. They are best known for their distinctive sickle-shaped claws, which were likely used for hunting and tackling prey. Adult Velociraptors measured between 1.5 to 2.07 meters (4.9 to 6.8 feet) in length and weighed around 14.1 to 19.7 kg (31 to 43 lbs) . Their anatomy included a long, slender skull with sharp serrated teeth, ideal for gripping and tearing into flesh, indicating a carnivorous diet that may have included small herbivores, lizards, and even other dinosaurs .
Recent discoveries have revealed that Velociraptors were feathered creatures, a characteristic that aligns them more closely with modern birds than previously thought. Fossils show quill knobs on their forearms, suggesting they had feathers that might have been used for display or insulation rather than flight . These feathers could have played a role in attracting mates or keeping warm, similar to the functions of feathers in contemporary birds .
In terms of behavior, Velociraptors are believed to have been intelligent hunters, possibly hunting in packs to take down larger prey. Their acute vision and sense of smell would have aided them in locating food effectively . The combination of their speed—estimated at around 24 miles per hour—and agility made them formidable predators in their environment . Fossil evidence even suggests they engaged in complex interactions with other species, as seen in a famous specimen depicting a Velociraptor locked in combat with a Protoceratops . This snapshot provides insight into their predatory behavior and social dynamics during the Cretaceous period.
Does the book How Fast Was a Velociraptor? by Alison Limentani help in teaching a Year 2 Measurements class?
The book "How Fast Was a Velociraptor?" by Alison Limentani does not appear to be directly relevant for teaching measurement concepts to Year 2 students. The search results focus on other children's books that are more appropriate for introducing and reinforcing measurement skills at this grade level.
Some better options for Year 2 measurement lessons include:
- "Super Sandcastle Saturday" by Stuart Murphy - introduces the basics of standard measurement
- "Millions to Measure" by David Schwartz - explains the history and differences between standard and metric measurement
- "Me and the Measure of Things" by Joan Sweeney - clearly introduces various measurement concepts like weight, size, and length in kid-friendly terms
The search results also provide many hands-on measurement activities and teaching tips that would be more effective for engaging Year 2 students, such as:
- Exploring measurement tools and recording observations
- Measuring real-life objects and rounding to the nearest unit
- Comparing lengths of objects and creating posters to share findings
- Measuring classmates' heights and creating a line plot
In summary, while a book about velociraptors may pique students' interest, it does not directly support the Year 2 measurement standards and objectives. The other children's books and activity ideas mentioned are better suited for effectively teaching measurement to this age group.
