Darwin's Dragons - Session 2 - Reading Comprehension

In the second session of the reading comprehension for "Darwin's Dragons," students delve into the intricacies of the narrative through a series of thought-provoking questions. Covington's concern for Mr. Darwin is explored, as well as the shifts in his own outlook towards the challenges he faces. The text prompts learners to consider why Covington opts to drink rainwater, providing insight into his survival strategies. Additionally, students are asked to interpret the colloquial phrase 'off my chump,' enhancing their understanding of character expression and historical language use.

The comprehension session also examines the effectiveness of vivid descriptions within the story, such as comparing the beast's wings to the sails of the Beagle, and why such comparisons enrich the reading experience. It delves into the reasons behind the beast's aggressive behaviour towards Covington and the clever methods he employs to camouflage himself from danger. Furthermore, the session touches upon personal aspects of Covington's life, including who taught him to play the fiddle, adding depth to his character. Finally, students are challenged to concisely summarise the session in no more than 50 words, encapsulating the key events and developments in a brief retelling.