Classroom Options: K-2
Typical classroom visits are for 45-60 minutes. We prefer to work with individual classes, but are willing to do full-grade type "assemblies" (e.g., a reptile program for the whole 4th grade class within your school). Through our classroom visits, we will try to utilize your school grounds in any way we can, providing the weather is appropriate. We will inform you prior to the scheduled visit if our intent is to take your class outside. You have a wonderful school property that is very conducive to environmental education. Unless otherwise specified, we will provide any and all necessary supplies and equipment. If you have an idea for a program, but do not see it listed, we are can develop a program to suit your needs.
1. Reptiles- Discover life cycles and habits of Ohio’s native reptiles. Students will have up close encounters with live examples and be able to compare their common traits that distinguish them as reptiles. They will also learn how and what they eat in their natural environment and their seasonal activity patterns.
2. Amphibians- Discover life cycles and habits of Ohio’s native Amphibians. Students will learn up close the distinct and unique characteristics of these part-time aquatic and part-time terrestrial animals. Students will also learn of amphibians’ seasonal activities and their sensitivity to pollutants. (available in spring) Can be included with the reptile program.
3. Skin & Skulls- A touch and feel program that allows students to closely observe the adaptation of a variety of skull structures and skins of local Ohio mammals. Students will learn through investigation specific functions, similarities and differences. They will also through observation be able classify the animals as carnivores, omnivores, and herbivores and whether they might be predator or prey. Students should also be able to describe how mammals physical attributes help them survive in their natural habitats.
4. Birding for Beginners- This program will introduce students to bird characteristics. Emphasis on migration and their adaptations will help students understand why they live where they do and what and how they eat. Hands on bird beak and owl pellet activities can also be offered with this program.
5. Wildlife Ecology- There are many limiting factors that determine an animal’s population. Through predator/prey and producer/consumer activities, students will derive an understanding of the relationships between different organisms. We’ll focus on the important role of habitats and issues faced with habitat loss.
6. Trees- Learn of the importance of trees and what they have to offer as key role players in their ecosystems. Hands on activities will demonstrate the unique structures and characteristics of trees and the wide variety of uses to animals and man.
7. Incredible Insects – Insects are a very diverse group of animals and come in many shapes and sizes. Through all of their diversity, they still have a few things in common: metamorphosis, body parts, and niche. Through investigations of insects in general, or by focusing on a group of your choice (e.g., butterflies, dragonflies, and grasshoppers), we’ll introduce students to the world of insects and their purpose on our planet.
1. Reptiles- Discover life cycles and habits of Ohio’s native reptiles. Students will have up close encounters with live examples and be able to compare their common traits that distinguish them as reptiles. They will also learn how and what they eat in their natural environment and their seasonal activity patterns.
2. Amphibians- Discover life cycles and habits of Ohio’s native Amphibians. Students will learn up close the distinct and unique characteristics of these part-time aquatic and part-time terrestrial animals. Students will also learn of amphibians’ seasonal activities and their sensitivity to pollutants. (available in spring) Can be included with the reptile program.
3. Skin & Skulls- A touch and feel program that allows students to closely observe the adaptation of a variety of skull structures and skins of local Ohio mammals. Students will learn through investigation specific functions, similarities and differences. They will also through observation be able classify the animals as carnivores, omnivores, and herbivores and whether they might be predator or prey. Students should also be able to describe how mammals physical attributes help them survive in their natural habitats.
4. Birding for Beginners- This program will introduce students to bird characteristics. Emphasis on migration and their adaptations will help students understand why they live where they do and what and how they eat. Hands on bird beak and owl pellet activities can also be offered with this program.
5. Wildlife Ecology- There are many limiting factors that determine an animal’s population. Through predator/prey and producer/consumer activities, students will derive an understanding of the relationships between different organisms. We’ll focus on the important role of habitats and issues faced with habitat loss.
6. Trees- Learn of the importance of trees and what they have to offer as key role players in their ecosystems. Hands on activities will demonstrate the unique structures and characteristics of trees and the wide variety of uses to animals and man.
7. Incredible Insects – Insects are a very diverse group of animals and come in many shapes and sizes. Through all of their diversity, they still have a few things in common: metamorphosis, body parts, and niche. Through investigations of insects in general, or by focusing on a group of your choice (e.g., butterflies, dragonflies, and grasshoppers), we’ll introduce students to the world of insects and their purpose on our planet.
