Dinosaur Extinction Discussion Prompts
Learning Objective: Pupils can discuss theories about dinosaur extinction and evaluate evidence
About this resource
This resource provides a set of engaging discussion prompts designed to encourage Year 3 pupils to explore and evaluate different theories surrounding dinosaur extinction. Teachers can use these prompts to facilitate lively classroom discussions, helping children develop critical thinking skills as they consider evidence and articulate their own ideas within the science curriculum. It directly supports the UK National Curriculum's emphasis on scientific enquiry and understanding significant historical events in Earth's history.
Context Setting
5 minutesDinosaurs ruled the Earth for over 160 million years. Then, about 66 million years ago, they suddenly disappeared. Scientists have different theories about why. Today we'll explore the evidence and discuss what we think happened.
The Main Theories
Theory 1: Asteroid Impact A massive asteroid hit Earth in what is now Mexico. It caused fires, tsunamis, and a 'nuclear winter' where dust blocked the Sun.
Theory 2: Volcanic Activity Massive volcanic eruptions in India (Deccan Traps) pumped gases into the atmosphere, changing the climate.
Theory 3: Combination Both events happened around the same time and together caused the extinction.
Discussion Questions
20 minutes- Which theory do you think is most likely? Why?
- What evidence would scientists need to prove each theory?
- If an asteroid hit Earth today, what would happen?
- Not all animals died — birds survived. Why do you think some animals survived and others didn't?
- Could dinosaurs ever come back? Should we try to bring them back?
Sentence Starters
- I think the most likely theory is... because...
- The evidence suggests...
- I agree/disagree with... because...
- One question I still have is...
- If I were a scientist, I would investigate...
Differentiation
SEN Support
Simplified theory cards with pictures. Paired discussion before whole-class sharing. Focus on questions 1-3.
EAL Support
Pre-taught vocabulary: asteroid, extinction, theory, evidence. Visual theory cards. Sentence starters.
Gifted & Talented
Research the Chicxulub crater and its discovery. Write a balanced argument evaluating the evidence for each theory.
Key Vocabulary
Assessment Criteria
- Discusses theories using evidence
- Evaluates different viewpoints
- Asks thoughtful questions