Darwin's Dragons - Session 4 - Chapters 10 - 13 - Worksheet

In Session 4, encompassing Chapters 10 to 13 of "Darwin's Dragons," students delve into a series of discussion questions that probe the use of italics in chapter 12 and explore the meaning of historical currency like the 'farthing'. They ponder the motivations behind a lizard's assistance to a character named Covington. The session is designed to enhance comprehension and analytical skills, with activities such as extending a timeline with key events from the chapters, listing flora and fauna mentioned in the text, and drawing the lizard character based on the description provided. A character analysis of Farthing and a reading comprehension exercise further deepen the understanding of the narrative.

The worksheet also provides a rich array of writing opportunities and cross-curricular links to broaden the educational experience. Students can create fact files on the lizard Farthing and on cacti, as well as compose poetry inspired by volcanic themes. The cross-curricular links are extensive, tying in subjects such as science—with a focus on plants, animals, rocks, habitats, and evolution—mathematics, computing, history, geography, art, music, physical education, religious education, and personal, social, health, and economic (PSHE) education. These links encourage students to create databases, webpages, and even Minecraft simulations, while also engaging with Victorian England's history, world geography, artistic representations of volcanoes, and the performance of "Amazing Grace." In physical education, there's an emphasis on swimming and life-saving skills, and in PSHE, the themes of courage, resilience, risk-taking, determination, and adaptability are highlighted.