Darwin's Dragons - Session 16 - Chapters 51 - 54 - Worksheet

In Session 16 of "Darwin's Dragons", students delve into chapters 51 to 54 with a series of discussion questions that encourage critical thinking about the characters' motivations and emotions. For instance, they explore why Darwin feels undermined by Covington and the impact of Quartz's death on Covington. They also consider the effects of altered living conditions on the dragons and Covington's reaction to Queen Victoria's intervention. These questions are designed to enhance students' reading skills and their ability to understand character development and plot nuances.

Alongside the discussions, the session includes various reading activities such as continuing a timeline of key events, listing flora and fauna mentioned in the text, and conducting a character analysis of Queen Victoria. Students are tasked with comparing the dragons' enclosure at the London Zoo to their new habitat in the mine, predicting the dragons' future, and completing reading comprehension exercises. Grammar and punctuation are also addressed through activities focusing on direct speech, modal verbs, formal and informal language, and the use of semi-colons. A 'Words to Workshop' section provides a list of vocabulary for students to explore, enhancing their language skills. Writing opportunities present creative tasks such as drafting a letter from Covington to the London Zoo, composing a newspaper report on Queen Victoria's visit, and discussing the ethics of animal captivity. Additionally, the worksheet offers cross-curricular links, including science, computing, history, geography, art, physical education, religious education, and personal, social, health, and economic (PSHE) education, providing a comprehensive educational experience.