In this module we looked at examples of dinosaurs, dinosaur characteristics and the reconstructing of dinosaurs from fossils. We also saw how the understanding of the fossil record is affected by whether the interpretation is done from an evolutionary or Biblical framework. Dinosaur facts We learned that dinosaurs have reptilian qualities but their hip structures are different from modern lizards. We saw that the best way to demonstrate that the eggs we call dinosaur eggs were really laid by dinosaurs is to find fossilized dinosaur embryos in the eggs. We discovered that many claims are made about what dinosaurs did and did not do. Because we do not have living dinosaurs, our knowledge of their behavior, physiology, and even of their anatomy is limited. We found that the most reasonable claim about dinosaur nesting behavior is to say some dinosaurs left the nest immediately after hatching; some did not. Reconstructing dinosaurs from fossil bones We saw that opinions about fossils are only opinions, and there may be more than one valid opinion. Some opinions agree with Scripture, and some do not, though both opinions are based on the same evidence. Christians must use Scripture to interpret science. We learned how the Oviraptor ("egg-stealer") illustrates the importance of separating facts from opinion. We also learned how to reply to apparent discrepancy between the Scriptures and the discovery of dinosaurs in the fossil record. We saw that when a conflict becomes evident between an apparent interpretation of the Bible and an apparent finding of science, it is best to proceed with the interpretation of Scripture until more knowledge is gained. We recognized that dinosaurs were never mentioned in older writings because the name "dinosaur" is a recent name, though they may have been referred to as "dragons" in the past. We also saw that many do not know how to interpret dinosaurs in their worldview. Therefore they say that dinosaurs did not really exist. A strong proof for their existence is the fact that whole dinosaur skeletons have been found and they are unique from other animals. We examined the question of, "Does the Bible refer to dinosaurs-like animals?" and concluded, "maybe." We learned that there are problems in dating sedimentary rock. It is not really possible to obtain a precise date for fossils or sedimentary rock. Ages are frequently assigned based on the assumption of evolution. Sedimentary rocks are derived rocks made largely of erosion particles from older rocks, so obtaining a precise age is difficult. Scientists date the rock layers that contain dinosaur fossils by the types of fossils in them. These assignments are based on evolution assumptions. We studied, "Rationale for Ark Life Surviving the Flood." There we saw that the Biblical account really is possible. Noah likely took animals representing the genus, not the species level. The ability of many animals to experience dormancy, torpor, and hibernation could have made Noah's job easier. There are also recent reports indicating that some iguanas are able to shrink in body length (up to 20% has been observed) when food is scarce to reduce their metabolic needs. We discovered that the "dinosaur mania" may be harmful to children since it subtly teaches intrinsic evolutionary concepts. We observed how dinosaurs fit into a young earth creationist model. When they appeared, why some ate meat, what happened to them at the time of Noah's flood, and why we don't see any today are all explainable within a young earth model. Even modern "dinosaur-like" animal sightings could fit into a young earth creationist model. But a living dinosaur would be difficult for an evolutionary model.