Structural and Behavioral Adaptations - Teacher's Guide |
Episode OverviewIn the first segment, Junior Naturalist Patrice looks at how plants and animals are adapted to their environment. Later, Patrice and Senior Naturalist Dave Erler look at the unique adaptations of the opossum. In the third segment, we take a closer look at the beaver. In the final segment, Cody and Octave visit the New England Aquarium's critical care ward and learn how they are treating Kemp's Ridley sea turtles that have washed ashore on Cape Cod, Massachusetts.Program ObjectivesStudents will: Vocabulary
Previewing Activities1. Have students brainstorm what living things need to survive. 2. Have each student find a picture of an animal. Then have the students list unique characteristics of that animal and how they think those characteristics help it survive. Post-Viewing Activities1. Have students develop a set of "why do" questions about animals and plants and do research to find the answers. For example: 2. Have students work individually or in small groups to design an imaginary animal. They can use modeling clay, paper and crayons or markers, or other art supplies. Have each group give a name to their animal and develop a fact sheet. The fact sheet should include habitat, diet, gender, behavior and physical characteristics. Once the students are finished, display the animals and have the students examine the animals and make predictions about habitat, behavior and diet based on the animal's visible characteristics. Then have the students share their fact sheets with the class. 3. Have students list ways humans artificially adapt to extremes in their environment. For example, coats in winter, sunglasses, air conditioners, heaters, sunscreen, etc.. | Hands-On: The Best Bill for the JobMaterials Neededplastic spoonstweezers (or two popsicle sticks, or clothes pins with springs) gummi worms cooked spaghetti noodles chocolate chips uncooked rice paper cups ProcessTell the students that they are testing which "beak" is better in gathering a variety of foods. Distribute plastic spoons, a cup and gummi worms to each student. Give them 10 seconds to gather as many worms as they can and put them in their cup. Have the students record the number gathered. Repeat the process with the spaghetti noodles and the chocolate chips. Distribute the tweezers and repeat the process. Have the students compile their data and record which tool worked best and why. A Cut Down on the Mess Suggestion! Additional Resources Web Sites Penguin Adaptation Investigate and Report on Animal Adaptations
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