Science·Dinosaurs & Paleontology·conceptual
Dinosaur Hip Groups
Classify dinosaurs into the two major groups based on hip structure: Saurischia (lizard-hipped, including theropods and sauropods) and Ornithischia (bird-hipped, including Triceratops and Stegosaurus)
Suggested ages 9–11
Learning journey
Your child is exploring how scientists study dinosaurs through fossils — learning about dinosaur classification, evolution into birds, extinction events, and how paleontologists uncover and interpret evidence from millions of years ago.
Evidence of understanding
- Name the two major dinosaur groups: Saurischia and Ornithischia
- Explain the difference is based on hip bone structure (lizard-hipped vs bird-hipped)
- Correctly classify at least two dinosaurs into each group (e.g. T. rex = Saurischia, Triceratops = Ornithischia)
Assessment prompt
Can Dinosaur Hip Groups explain that scientists divide dinosaurs into two big groups based on their hip bones — and tell you which group includes T. rex?
Standards alignment
No external standards are linked to this topic.