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T. rex vs Triceratops

Students will adopt the role of a palaeontologist and learn how we have come to know about life as a dinosaur.

Who is it for: Key stage 3
Duration: 60 minutes
Tyrannosaurus and Triceratops from the Cretaceous era in a stand-off

Discover who would win in a battle between a T. rex and Triceratops

After being introduced to two of the most famous dinosaurs to walk the earth, the T. rex and Triceratops, students will calculate their physical characteristics with real scientific equations. 

Using biomechanics, students will employ the techniques used by engineers to assess the strength of buildings and bridges and apply them to living and extinct animals.  

 

 

Curriculum links

Key stage 3
Mathematics
Physics
Working scientifically
  • Describing motion
  • Forces
  • Mathematics: Algebra, ratio, proportion and rates of changes

Students will learn

How to input their own measurements into existing equations for length, mass, speed and force

How to use clues from fossil evidence to infer behaviour in extinct animals

Brain icon.

How to convert between SI units and put very large forces into everyday contexts

Dinosaur icon

How researchers use engineering methods to calculate the forces involved in dinosaur feeding and locomotion

School trip prices

We allow a ratio of 1 adult to every 5 children for most groups. Additional adults over this ratio will be charged. In the case of SEN groups, we may offer further free adult support on request – please contact us to discuss your requirements.

During winter months (from 9 November – 18 December), school science centre visits are combined with a skate on Life’s outdoor ice rink for the cost of £12 per child. See more about seasonal pricing. 

Teachers and adult helpers go FREE!
Workshop price
£110 per class (max 36)
Science Centre visit add-on
£6.95 per pupil
FREE 15-minute careers workshop add-on

Optional add-on focused on STEM careers and designed to support Gatsby Benchmarks