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Curse of T. rex

Viewing Ideas

Before Watching

1. Taking fossils from federal land without a permit is illegal. Only scientists are granted such permits, and most commercial dealers disagree with this policy. Have students discuss issues concerning the ownership and management of public land. Who should have access to fossil finds on public lands? Who should make decisions about how public land is managed? If something important such as fossils or oil is discovered on that land, who owns it: the government, the people who found it, or someone else?

After Watching

1. Ask students what they would do if they found a dinosaur fossil in their backyard. Who would own it? What if they found it on school grounds? Behind the back of the grocery store?