Why did the dinosaur become extinct?

Time Frame for Research:  2 science class periods (60 min each)

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1.  For practical purposes, you will be divided into five groups of four students, but consider each group a microcosm of the panel of twenty scientists.

2.  In the computer lab, each group will share two computers.  Two members of each group should search the internet for relevant information.  The other two members should take notes.  The roles can be alternated if you wish.

3.  Your goal in the research phase is to gather as much information as possible about existing theories and justifications for those theories.  You are welcome to use any scientific web sites, but you may find the following websites useful: 

1. http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2009/10/091016-asteroid-impact-india-dinosaurs.html
   
2. http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/evolution/extinction/dinosaurs/asteroid.html
   
3. http://filebox.vt.edu/artsci/geology/mclean/Dinosaur_Volcano_Extinction/pages/studentv.html
4. http://www.enchantedlearning.com/subjects/dinosaurs/extinction/Other.html
5. http://library.thinkquest.org/C005824/extinction.html
6. www.unmuseum.org/deaddino.html

Be sure to cite your sources.

Time Frame for Formulation of Answer and Power Point:  2 science class periods

4.  Once you have completed your research, you should examine all of the findings with your group colleagues.  All four of you must formulate a consensus answer about the extinction of the dinosaur.  Your answer may support an existing theory or propose a new theory.  The only criterion is that you justify your answer with data and sound reasoning.  To help you formulate and focus your answer look for:  similarities among the theories, differences among the theories, and gaps of information in the theories.

5.  In your power point, include the following:

     -  10 to 15 slides
     -  clear statement of your answer
     -  clear justification of your answer
     -  supporting graphics (informational and aesthetic)

Time Frame for Presentation of Power Point:  1 science class period

6.  Your group will present your power point to the rest of the class.  Remember that your group represents a panel of twenty collaborating scientists and the rest of your class (your listening audience) represents scientists from all over the world.  Each group member should contribute to the presentation.  Your group will have 10 minutes to present your power point and 2 minutes to field questions.  The following web site contains a dinosaur power point for your reference.

http://www.earth4567.com/talks/dinosaurs.html