Introduction to the Study of Dinosaurs

This highly accessible introduction to dinosaurs places scientific method at the crux of the studies, teaching students about scientific research and principles as they learn about dinosaurs.

Now in its second edition, the text includes updates on recent finds, increased coverage of evolution and physiology, and an expanded and improved illustration program.

• Balances scientific rigour with real world examples.
• This new edition includes updates on recent finds and an increased coverage of evolution and physiology.
• Also features end of chapter discussion questions, easy reference glossary, new references at the end of each chapter, and high-quality, full color figures and photographs throughout.

Preface.

1. Why Study Dinosaurs?.

2. Overview of Scientific Methods.

3. History of Dinosaur Studies.

4. Paleontology and Geology as Sciences.

5. Dinosaur Anatomy and Classification.

6. Dinosaur Evolution.

7. Dinosaur Taphonomy.

8. Dinosaur Physiology.

9. Theropoda.

10. Sauropodomorpha.

11. Ornithopoda.

12. Thyreophora.

13. Marginocephalia.

14. Dinosaur Ichnology.

15. Birds as Dinosaurs.

16. Dinosaur Extinctions.

Glossary.

Index

"This book is successful. It is indeed full of valuable and useful information that is generally well packaged and accessible." (Geological Magazine, July 2008)

Anthony Martin is a Senior Lecturer in Environmental Studies at Emory University, where he has taught for 15 years.

"The text is very appropriate for an introductory course on dinosaurs. The material is up to date, the pedagogy is excellent, and the explanations of technical material are accessible. I've already used this text, and will continue to do so - the new edition is an excellent improvement."
Raymond freemen-Lynde, University of Georgia

"Introduction to the study of Dinosaurs is packed with information and covers the essential topics thoroughly. Martin's style makes the reading fun and easy, so that the information is easy to assimilate. In addition, the website is an excellent resource, providing a wealth of information and links for further exploration."
Gus Winterfeld, Idaho State University

This highly accessible introduction to dinosaurs places scientific method at the crux of the studies, teaching students about scientific research and principles as they learn about dinosaurs. Now in its second edition, the text includes updates on recent finds, increased coverage of evolution and physiology, an expanded and improved illustration program, and is in color throughout.

Beginning with foundational chapters on the scientific method and the context of dinosaurs, the text then proceeds with detailed discussions of dinosaur anatomy, taphonomy, evolution, physiology, and ichnology. The book also examines five select clades of dinosaurs, and finishes by covering birds as modern dinosaurs and dinosaur extinctions. Intended for both majors and nonmajors, this textbook balances scientific rigor with real-world examples which show how dinosaurs lived and died as well as what happened to them after they died.

Features of this new edition include:

• Everyday scenarios at chapter openings which set the stage for chapter content
• Dedicated web page, www.blackwellpublishing.com/dinosaurs, with interactive material and all art in downloadable from (art also available to instructors on CD-ROM)
• End-of-chapter discussion questions
• Easy-references glossary
• New references at the end of each chapter
• High-quality, full-colour figures and photographs throughout

“The text is very appropriate for an introductory course on dinosaurs. The material is up to date, the pedagogy is excellent, and the explanations of technical material are accessible. I’ve already used this text, and will continue to do so – the new edition is an excellent improvement.”
–Raymond Freeman-Lynde, University of Georgia

“Introduction to the Study of Dinosaurs is packed with information and covers the essential topics thoroughly. Martin’s style makes the reading fun and easy, so that the information is easy to assimilate. In addition, the website is an excellent resource, providing a wealth of information and links for further exploration.”
–Gus Winterfeld, Idaho State University