Darwin's Dragons - Session 15 - Chapters 46 - 50 - Worksheet

In Session 15, students delve into chapters 46 to 50 of "Darwin's Dragons," focusing on key discussion questions that explore the characters' trust and concerns. Covington's trust in Darwin's decision to move the dragons to London Zoo and his subsequent worries about their prospective living conditions there are examined. Additionally, the session probes into the argument between Covington and Darwin regarding the dragons' age. These discussion points encourage students to consider character motivations and the ethical implications of the characters' choices.

The session is rich with activities aimed at enhancing comprehension and analytical skills. Students continue to develop a timeline of the book's events, list the flora and fauna featured in the story, and update their character analysis of Darwin. They also delve into Covington's thoughts and feelings about the dragons' eggs, enhancing their understanding of the character. Grammar and punctuation are not overlooked, with exercises on expanded noun phrases, pronouns, direct speech, and modal verbs. Additionally, students have the opportunity to expand their vocabulary with words such as 'encouraging', 'incredibly', and 'assist'. Writing opportunities include composing a letter from Covington to the London Zoo about the dragons' living conditions and creating a newspaper report on Queen Victoria's visit to the Zoo to see the dragons. The session also prompts a discussion on the ethics of animal captivity and includes a fact file and an explanation of the life cycle of reptiles.