Habitats

What better way is there to apply our understanding of habitats than by creating one?

During the first quarter of school, students deepen their understanding of habitats; the tundra, the rainforest, the desert and the forest.  After exploring living versus non-living things, students identified the four things living things need in order to survive: food, water, shelter and space. Habitats have similar and differing climates, plants and animal but adapt and change over time. The class observed how the forest surrounding our school was currently changing due to construction and change of seasons.

Using our knowledge of habitats, students were challenged through STEM to create a habitat including all components needed for a chosen animal to survive. Because they are a classroom of thinkers, the students included three ways the habitat changes and a movable part. 

Materials for the project included: scissors, construction paper, tape, craft sticks, colorful string, strong hole punches, gold brads and great imaginations. 

Students planned, designed and created habitats. Upon completion, everyone gathered together to present and review the differing habitat designs. Who knew the same type of habitat could be represented in so many different ways?  With each presentation, the class discovered new ways to design and re-engineer work. The teacher couldn't help being impressed with all the hard and thoughtful work! Job well done!