We tend to group all things large, extinct and scaly under the term “dinosaur,” but the question of what makes a dinosaur a dinosaur is more complex than that. In fact, many of the prehistoric beasts that we envision when we think of the Mesozoic Era or see in movies like Jurassic World are not actually dinosaurs. 
In this class, we will begin by exploring the question of what makes a dinosaur a true dinosaur, including the distinctive anatomical features that set dinosaurs apart from other creatures.
We will then take an in-depth look at many of the terrifying prehistoric beasts commonly mistaken for dinosaurs, including mosasaurs, pterodactyls, plesiosaurus and Quetzalcoatlus. 
The class will progress to explore the argument that, in an evolutionary sense, there are still “true” dinosaurs alive today, and discuss which modern animals fall under that classification. 
The class will conclude by giving students an opportunity to apply and test their knowledge by discussing whether a variety of specific creatures, based on characteristics provided, would be considered true dinosaurs. 
This class was structured based on specific content requests from students in previous related Outschool classes that I have offered, and it will promote active engagement and discussion with the help of visual aids shared in a PowerPoint format.