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Student Article

Why Small Dinosaurs Could Be a Big Danger to Humans

By: Dr. Stephen Brusatte
Originally Published in  Science Focus

Not all dinosaurs were giant monsters — some smaller ones might have caused the most trouble for people if they lived today. Perhaps a real life Jurassic Park wouldn't be such a good idea.

The article "Why Small Dinosaurs Could Be a Big Danger to Humans" from BBC Science Focus is a fascinating look at which dinosaurs would be the biggest threat if they lived today. While massive meat-eaters like Tyrannosaurus look scary, the smaller, feathered dinosaurs could be even more dangerous due to their speed, smarts, and sharp claws.
Student Article Info

BBC's Science Focus is packed with news, discoveries, ideas and innovations to keep you up-to-speed with the complexities of the fast-moving world around us. Learn more about subscriptions here.

Grades:
3-56-89-12
Subject:
Science
Topic:
Life Science
Keywords
dinosaurspredatorstheropodsextinctionsurvivalVelociraptor
Illustration of four long-necked dinosaurs
© Getty

Most passages are available in three different versions: Level 1 (Grade 3-5), Level 2 (Grade 6-8), and Level 3 (Grade 9-12). Some more complex texts are available only in Level 2 and Level 3. Use the versions that are most appropriate for the students in your class.

Note: The BBC Learning Hub Editorial Team made use of AI tools to create multiple versions of this article, each tailored to different student reading levels. Every version undergoes a thorough review by our BBC Learning editors to ensure accuracy, quality, and appropriateness.

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Level 1 Reading Passage
Grades: 3-5Lexile Level: 400-500L
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Level 2 Reading Passage
Grades: 6-8Lexile Level: 600-800L
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Level 3 Reading Passage
Grades: 9-12Lexile Level: 900-1100L
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