It's a Zoo in Here!!! {Animal Research}

Full moon....last two weeks of school...do I have to say more??

Yes, it IS a zoo in here.  So we decided to go with it and do some animal research using my "It's a Zoo in Here" animal research packet.  

We started off learning about animal groups and animal terminology.  The packet includes some colorful posters to display in your classroom.

We did an animal sorting activity the kids loved.

Then, they completed their own sort as an informal assessment and made animal booklets reviewing the features of each animal classification.

Next, I explained what Sticky Note Scientists are.  Students got to choose their own animal to become an expert on.  They used sticky notes and note-taking pages (with guiding questions on each sticky note square) to research their animal's habitat, appearance, diet, babies, and interesting facts.  They even completed a glossary with three terms. 

After taking notes, they wrote a rough draft on  practice pages.  Then, I helped them edit those pages which they then transferred to a final draft page.

 I used a comb binder to bind the final drafts.  The kids were so immensely proud of their work!  It took us about two weeks to do the project.  Halfway through the project, we went to Dauset Trails, an animal rehab facility.  Each student got to do a presentation in front of their animal's cage teaching their classmates all about the animal.  I was so impressed with their knowledge!  

 The unit comes with a suggested lesson timeline and suggested resources as well.  It also comes with a few supplemental activities and book bin labels.  My students will be turning in their final projects on Thursday.  They had the choice of either making a habitat diorama/model or a poster.  I'll share those next week!  

Leave a comment letting me know your favorite animal.  If you pick my favorite animal, you'll win a copy of the unit! :)