Citizen science is a new term, but for thousands of years, amateur scientists have contributed to our understanding of the world. Citizen science brings volunteers and professional researchers together to collaborate on projects, including bird studies. The National Audubon Society hosts twice yearly bird counts. The Cornell Lab of Ornithology runs year-round research projects. Kindergarten and first-grade students can join the fun, but will need some basic skills. Citizen scientists identify birds, count them and record numbers.
Select three birds that children might see in your community. Have display-sized pictures of each bird for students to see. If the male and female look different -- the biological term is sexual dimorphism -- provide pictures of both sexes. Use a search engine and type in the phrase "bird outlines to color." Generate student worksheets for each of the chosen birds -- two sheets if the male and female differ in color.
Exhibit bird photos and ask students what they spy. Talk about bird size and provide a reference. For example, students can compare the size of the bird to the size of their hands. Ask students to note a particular feature that would help them remember the bird. Direct students to mark their worksheets so the birds look like the photos. Add a cover and let students created a bird guide. Extend the lesson over several weeks and have students add birds to the book.
Have your students share their knowledge. Create a bulletin board or a display. Invite another class to visit and have the students teach "I Spy a Bird." If possible, have bird worksheets for your guests to color. Encourage students to take their bird guides home and share them with their families.