Grades 2-5
31 activities—236 pages

The universal appeal of critters in the classroom is a wonderful tool for providing students a deeper understanding of important math and science concepts. In this revised edition of Critters, there are more than 30 hands-on activities to foster curiosity and sharpen observational skills while building Life Science content knowledge.

For example, in “Missing Moths,” students learn about moths changing from light to dark over time during the Industrial Revolution in England and how this change allowed the moths to blend into their surroundings as pollution darkened vegetation. Students will conduct their own exploration, attempting to camouflage paper moths throughout the classroom by selecting colors and patterns. The study may also extend outside where students place different colors of green paper moths on grass to observe how well they can be hidden.

Students will engage in explorations to help them learn about six main themes relating to critters:
•    observations,
•    behaviors,
•    classifications and characteristics,
•    camouflage and adaptations,
•    life cycles, and
•    interdependence.
Each of these themes is supported by two to seven activities that use a variety of critters. The material is also supported by research, literature, and online connections.

Teachers will appreciate that within each section, the activities are generally arranged starting with those appropriate for lower grades, and moving to activities more suited for upper grades. In nearly every case, activities can be modified to suit the needs of students.