1.39 Be a Wildlife Watcher
“Be a Wildlife Watcher” is a small-group Environmental Science lesson from the National FFA Mentoring Program’s Grow Your PALS Program Guide. Students read about birds, then go outside to identify and record local birds and wildlife in a handmade notebook, and learn the terms “native” and “wildlife.” The lesson includes a Pictionary review activity and bird-nest/Robin’s egg treat application activities.
At a glance
- Learning objectives
-
- Identify 10 kinds of birds commonly found in the area.
- Name five types of wildlife found locally.
- Discuss personal experiences as a wildlife watcher.
- Time required
- 30-45 minutes
- Grade level
- K-4
- Materials
-
- Books from library (suggestions: Backyard Bird Watching for Kids by George H. Harrison & Kit Harrison; Are You My Mother? by P.D. Eastman; Birds (Science Kids) by Nicola Davies; Fly Away Home by Eve Bunting; The Best Nest by P.D. Eastman; Birds, Nests & Eggs by Mel Boring)
- Notebook
- Pencil
- Color crayons or colored pencils
- Binoculars
- Camera
- Computer and printer to print out pictures from nature walk
- Bird book
- PALS1.39.SG.AS.A – activity sheet suggestion if extra time is allowed
- Note cards with local wildlife names for Pictionary Activity Review
- Unit
- Environmental Science
- Lesson Type
- Small Group
- Precepts
- N. Decision Making; N6. Demonstrate decision-making process; N7. Demonstrate problem-solving skills
- Key Terms
- Native; Wildlife
- Resources
- National FFA Organization. (2003). LifeKnowledge Precepts and Signs of Success. http://home.howstuffworks.com/bird-watching-activities-for-kids12.htm
Downloads & Links
Aligned Standards
National Standards
- CS.02.02.02.aDemonstrate proper conduct and appearances for various settings.
- NL-ENG.K-12.12Applying Language Skills
- NRS.01.02.03.cConduct a field inventory of wildlife species, and record and document findings.
- NS.K-4.3Life Science