Exploring Online Mammal Environments
Students Watch Video Clips of Animals in their Natural Habitats
Video clips are able to connect students with footage of animals in their natural environment in the classroom all across the world. Students may watch seal migration or how a beaver creates their den on a video clip and it is more engaging then leafing through a book or surfing the net.
Animal Habitat Project
Students are divided into 6 groups to explore one of the many habitats such as: marine, tundra, woodlands, grasslands and desert. Teacher may choose the group, but allow the students to work with one friend in a group. Teacher will have students pair up and then strategically place partners in one of the six habitats.
Students in their animal habitat groups will choose different animals from the specific habitat. Students may be paired to do the project, but guidelines should be in place to ensure one student doesn't do the majority of the work. After students have chosen their animal, they will watch a video clip on the animal. Teacher will approve the animal and ensure a video clip is available that is kid friendly. As well, teacher may choose to have students watch animal footage compiled for a DVD.
Before the expectations are given, students will watch their animal video to get them excited about the project. Teacher may have students watch throughout the day if there are limited computers, or book the computer lab for all to watch together. After students have watched their video, teacher will outline the expectations.
After students view their animal, they will begin their research project using a variety of sources such as the Internet, books, magazines, and interviews from animal specialists. As well, it is best to give an outline of what information is required for their animal habitat project. The video clip is a great stepping stone for the student to get an idea of their animal and their habitat. Often it is overwhelming for students to begin a research project because they are unsure of where to start.
A main component of the habitat project is to describe the physical appearance of the animal in student language. Explain how to summarize information from books and other sources with modeling. As well, students will describe the physical environment of where the animal lives, how they survive, and other interesting facts about the animal. Students will add pictures drawn and photocopied for their project. However, it is best to limit the number of printed photos, to encourage students to use their art ability.
Lastly, students are to create a booklet with their information and one animal card. The animal card is similar to a sports card. The front of the card is a student drawn illustration of the animal with their name. Back of the card will identify its habitat location, food choices, and any other relevant information.
An animal card makes the student truly summarize the animal and its habitat. Students may create the animal card on the computer and the teacher may print out a card for each student. Also, throughout the year, students may create more animal cards and give fellow classmates. Many students will enjoy making a card of their favorite animal or pet to share with the class later in the year.
It is easy to engage students in an animal habitat research project with the aid of video clips, as many students of today are technology motivated. Video clips are interesting to watch because the viewer can relax and lose themselves in the action.
Animal Habitat Project
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