Reconstructing A Fossil Pterosaur

Elder, Nathan R.                      Farragut Career Academy
                                      762-2421
                            

Objectives:
1. Reconstruct the skeleton of Scaphognathus crassirostis.
2. Make inferences about the mode of locomotion, feeding habits, and 
   adaptations of Scaphognathus crassirostis.

Apparatus needed:
l. Scissors
2. Transparent tape
3. Metric ruler  

Instructional strategy:
1. Introduce the Animal Kingdom-Birds, Evolution, Habitats, and 
   characteristics Worksheet.
2. Discuss the Geologic Calendar Worksheet.
3. Discuss Early History, Paleozoic: Life Leaves the Sea. Pass out 
   fossils showing stems. 
4. Discuss Early History, Mesozoic: Mammals Emerge, Reptiles Reign: 
          Amphibian Modern Skeleton
          Reptilian Modern Skeleton
          Aves Modern Skeleton
          Mammalian Modern Skeleton

Recommended strategy:
1. Phenomenological approach - pass out envelopes containing bones of 
   Scaphognathus crassirostis.
2. Direct students to assemble the skeleton in twenty minutes.

Review Questions:
1. What is the main function of the bones that make up Scaphognathus 
   crassirostis's little finger?
2. List three features of S. crassirostis's skeleton that the animal 
   was adapted to flying. 
3. The fossil of S. crassirostis was found in limestone that formed 
   in a warm sea-water lagoon.  What could you infer were the feeding 
   habits and food of this animal?
4. S. crassirostis's wings were made of a delicate flap of skin. 
   If this flap of skin tore, the animal could not fly.  Use this 
   information to explain how S. crassirostis might have had trouble 
   competing with bird species living during the Mesozoic Era.
5. Explain how the protruding fingers of the middle of the wing might 
   have been used to clutch the edges of the cliffs from which the 
   Pterosaur glided.  
6. Explain how once a scientist has reconstructed a skeleton, the 
   scientists can use this and other information to infer the 
   appearance and habitat of the animal, since such a picture or model 
   is called a RESTORATION.