How Do Dinosaurs Say Good Night?

Only if the students are interested in the types of dinosaurs and they can think critically about why this book is not factual.

• Author: Jane Yolen
• Illustrator: Mark Teague
• Year Published: 2000
• ISBN: 0590316818

Science Topics

• Life Science

Minimum Suggested Grade Level

• Prekindergarten

Maximum Suggested Grade Level

• 1st Grade

Summary

This is a rhyming good night book about dinosaurs. It tells different examples of how dinosaurs go to bed, but the dinosaurs are fiction and act how little children would.

Evaluation

• Appropriateness: High
• Authority: Medium
• Accuracy: Medium
• Appearance: Medium

Questions

Does the book foster development of processes?

Only if the students are interested in the types of dinosaurs and they can think critically about why this book is not factual.

Does the book provide an opportunity for children to ask and answer their own questions?

Yes.  The dinosaurs are placed in children's beds and they obviously don't fit so the children can ask themselves if this is realistic.

Does the book encourage children to think for themselves?

It has them think about their nigh time routine and if these dinosaurs are reacting similarly.  Replacing the children with dinosaurs gives a different perspective to how they act during bed time.

Is the science topic addressed in ways that are appropriate to the lesson?

The only science topic that is addressed are the different types of dinosaurs and rather than having the name of the dinosaur on their head board, it does not address any other science topics.

Is the content based on sound scientific principles? Is it accurate?

No.  The dinosaurs are displaying human characteristics.  The physical appearance of the dinosaurs is accurate as well as their names.

Does the book distinguish between fact and fiction?

It doesn't distinguish between fact and fiction straight out, but it shows the dinosaurs not fitting properly in the children's beds or homes so this can be a clue that the information is not factual.

Are the illustrations clear and accurate?

The illustrations are clear and accurate portrayals of the humans and the dinosaurs. They are just not in the right setting.

Is the book written at the level of your students?

This would be for younger children.  There is very little text and a very simple story line.

Is there a multicultural component? Is it free from stereotyping?

Yes.  The story shows all different types of families of all different races.  It seems like they are all living in a very typical American culture house but there is a multitude of races.

Is the book free from gender bias?

Yes.  The dinosaurs represent children but it never mentions a gender.  There is a representation of both mothers and fathers.

Does the book show the close association between science and other disciplines?

No.  The only association between the dinosaurs in the book and a real dinosaur is its appearance.

Does the book present a positive attitude toward science and technology?

It could get the children interested in dinosaurs.  There is a large variety.