Have the students select an animal to research for a presentation which they will present to the entire class. This project can support research skills, meet the science curriculum and involve language arts development. In your classroom, keep a notebook of animals from around the world. Include pictures, book information and websites where students can complete their research. The students should complete a poster containing facts about the animal including its natural habitat, diet and other interesting information to present to the class.
Brine shrimp are small shrimp species that grow in controlled environments. Set up a project using brine shrimp, which are typically available as fish food in pet shops. The experiment requires very little maintenance required and allows all students to participate. The students will work on experiments to determine which environmental factors effect the hatching and growth rates of the brine shrimp. Students will create mini habitats using two-liter bottles with the lids cut off. Adding noniodized salt and baking soda to tap water will hatch the brine shrimp. Alter different variables such as the amounts of salt, baking soda, temperature and pH levels of the water to determine which set of circumstances yields the best results. This activity introduces the scientific method and gives hands-on experimental experience.
Not all school systems have easy access to zoos. Many large zoos around the country, such as the San Diego, Toledo and Smithsonian Zoos, have webcams on animals. Display a webcam over the projector and discuss how to observe the animal. Ask the students to write down observations regarding appearance, behaviors, habitat and any other items of interest they notice. Assign an animal that each student is to observe during learning centers. The students should take detailed notes regarding observations and questions. Allow students observing the same animals to compare notes and have them provide short presentations on what they learned about the animal they observed. This activity teaches observation and note-taking skills.
Invasive species are species of plants or animals that enter a foreign ecosystem. Examples include boa constrictors in Florida, the Giant African snail in Hawaii and the Asian Carp in Midwestern rivers. These species, which may be introduced on purpose or by accident, have many consequences on the ecosystem they enter. Each student will select an animal that is considered an invasive species. The students need to research how the species was introduced into the environment, what effects the species is having on the environment, what is being done to control the spread of the species and how they, as citizens, may be able to help. Students will share the information with their classmates.