Science 4
Discovery Education – Habitats
1. I Can Statements
2. Animations
Short animated clips that include labels and focus on important factors pertaining to the topic. No sound.
a.
Arctic 4.2.a.b.c.
The most northern part of the Earth is called the North Pole. The North Pole and the region around it, is called the
Arctic. Very few plants and animals live in the Arctic because it is so cold. Snow and ice remain year round there. Plants
and animals must have special adaptations that allow them to survive in the harsh conditions.
b. Biodiversity
4.1.a.b.c.d.
4.2.a.b.c
A tropical rainforest is a biome. Many different kinds of animals live there. Birds like cockatoos and harpy eagles are
found in the canopy. Howlers, macaws, butterflies, toucans, sloths, boa constrictors, and squirrel monkeys live in the
understory. Jaguars, boars, ant eaters, iguanas, tiger, toads, and humming birds live on the forest floor.
c.
Carnivore
4.1.f
4.2.a.
Carnivores, like tigers, feed on the flesh of other animals. Tigers stalk their prey by hiding in the tall grasses. The long
stripes on their coat help them merge with the surrounding. They pursue their prey and hunt them down.
d. Community
4.1.a.b.c.d.f.
4.2.a.c.
Maple and oak trees are producers in a forest ecosystem. Animals like birds and deer are consumers. Small bugs live on
rotten and decayed vegetation. They are decomposers.
e.
Coral Reef
4.1.a.b.c.
4.2.a.b.c.
Coral reefs occur in the warm, shallow waters of tropical oceans. When tiny animals like coral polyps die, their hard
skeletons are left behind. Layers and layers of deposited skeletons form coral reefs. Coral reefs provide food and shelter
to many colorful fishes.
f.
Desert
4.1.a.v.c.
4.2.a.b.c.
Deserts are located at the mid latitudes. They have extremely hot climates and less rainfall. The Sonoran desert is a
rocky desert with Saguaro cacti and animals like snakes and lizards. The Sahara desert is a sandy desert having less or no
vegetation. The camel is a hardy animal adapted to long periods of no water.
g.
Environment
4.1.d.
4.2.b.c.
4.3.b.c.d.e.
The environment is all around us. It includes all the things an organism needs to survive. Humans change the
environment in many ways.
h. Extinct
4.3.a.d.e.
Dodos became extinct because they were hunted for their meat and feathers. Quagga is a type of zebra. It was also
hunted to extinction. Over the past millions of years, many animals have become extinct.
i.
Food Chain
4.1.a.b.d.f.g.k.
4.2.c.
A food chain shows how food passes from one organism to another in an ecosystem. Each organism is like a link in a
metal chain, where every individual is dependent on the others to stay alive.
j.
Food Web
4.1.a.b.d.f.g.k. 4.2.c.
A food web describes the food relationships of the animals living in an ecosystem. The food web describes what animals
eat. The red arrows tell us who is the predator and who is the prey.
k.
Grassland
4.1.a.b.c.
4.2.a.b.c.
Grassland biomes are vast stretches of grass where trees are rare. The soil of these ecosystems is very productive and
so, they are used to grow crops like wheat and corn. Grasslands serve as grazing grounds for many animals.
l.
Habitat
4.1.b. 4.2.a.b.c.
The place in which an organism lives is known as its habitat. The habitat provides the organism with food, water, and
shelter. The Everglades are the habitat of the bog frog. Here, it gets lots of insects to eat and water to drink.
m. Hibernate
4.2.a.b.c.
Bears eat a lot of food before winter. Then they hibernate. The bear’s body temperature cools. Their heart rate slows
down. And they do not breathe as often. This saves energy so they do not have to eat. Other animals hibernate, too.
Snakes, badgers, chipmunks, and some bats also hibernate. Sometimes the animal will wake up and eat some of the food
that it has stored in its burrow or nest during the winter and then it goes back into hibernation
n. Marine
4.1.a.b.c.
4.2.a.b.c.
A seal has a body built for swimming. Without water, it would be very hard for the seal to move from place to place or
capture food. A seal is an animal that lives in a marine environment. Marine is a word that describes something related
to the sea. A marine animal lives in the ocean or depends on the ocean for food. Examples of marine animals include
whales, otters, crabs, and fish.
o. Migration
4.2.a.b.c.
Where do many of the birds go in the winter? Many birds will migrate or fly to another place that is warmer. The birds
migrate back to their summer home in the spring to build a nest and reproduce. Even animals on the plains of Africa
migrate. In the dry season, they go to find water. In the wet season, they return home.
p. Niche 4.1.b.e.f.
4.2.a.b.c.
A snake's niche includes what it eats and what environment it needs to survive. Snakes depend on warm temperatures.
Snakes eat mice, lizards, birds, and eggs. They are food for eagles, owls, and hawks.
q. Wetland
4.1.a.b.c.
4.2.a.b.c.
Wetlands are zones that connect land masses and water bodies. They are flooded with water long enough during the
year to have plenty of aquatic plants and animals. A bog is a wetland biome that is abundant in sedges, shrubs, and
moss, and provides habitat for alligators, turtles, frogs and insects like dragonflies.
3. Brief Constructed Response
a.
Adaptation
4.2.a.b.j
b.
Basic Needs
4.2.a.b.c.h
c.
Extinction
4.1.k. 4.2.a.b.c. 4.3.d.e.
d.
Habitat Characteristics 4.2.b.
e.
Land Ecosystems
f.
Long Term changes in Ecosystems
g.
Organism Needs
4.2.b.c.h.i.
h.
Parts of a Food Chain
4.1.f.g.
i.
Parts of Ecosystems
4.1.d.e.f.
j.
Responses to Environment
k.
Shelter and Defense
4.2.b.c.
4.2.b.c. 4.3.d.e.
4.1.e.f. 4.2.b.c.h.
4.2.a.b.h.j.
4. e-books
Many if not all of these e-books also have a hard copy under the heading of “Readings.” The e-books provide an alternate
reading strategy for you to incorporate. It is assumed that class discussions or assignments take place after each reading
in order to meet the indicators mentioned.
a.
Animal and Human Behaviours 4.2.b.c.f.g.
Living things have different behaviors. A behavior is the way a living thing acts in response to a situation.
b. Animal Homes 4.a.b.c.
Animals live in places that are cold, wet, hot, and dry.
c.
Can a Plant Live Anywhere?
4.1.k. 4.2.a.b.c.h.i.j.
Plants can survive only in places that meet their needs. The plants in different ecosystems have adaptations that help
them to meet their needs.
d. Ecosystems, Changes, and Adaptations 4.2.a.b.c.h.i.j. 4.3.a.c.d.e.
When the climate of an ecosystem becomes cooler, the new temperature affects the plants and animals that live there.
Many species do not survive. However, some organisms may survive.
e.
Food Chains
4.1.e.f.k. 4.3.d.e.
A food chain shows how energy moves between organisms.
f.
How A Habitat Meets Needs
4.2.a.b.c. 4.3.a.b.c.d.e.
All organisms need food, water, and shelter. Many human activities change the habitats of plants and animals. These
changes make it difficult for organisms to survive in their habitat.
g. How Living things Get Food
4.1.d.f.g.h.
All living things need a source of energy to live. They get this energy from food. However, different living things get
their food in different ways.
h. Producers and consumers
4.1.d.f.g.h.
Organisms use energy to grow, to move, and to reproduce. They get this energy from food. Scientists can classify living
things based on the way they get their food.
i.
Where Animals Live
4.1.d.
The place where an animal lives is called its habitat. A habitat has many things an animal needs to survive.
j.
Why Organisms Need a Habitat
4.1.d.f. 4.2.a.b.c.i.j. 4.3.e.
The place where an organism lives is called its habitat. For example, a forest might be a habitat for deer. A swamp
might be a habitat for frogs. Many crayfish live in stream habitats.
5. Explorations
a. Adaptations
4.2.a.b.c.d.e.g.h.i.j. 4.3.a.b.c.d.e.
Living things adapt in order to survive in their surroundings. Turtles have a hard shell to protect them. Penguins are
birds but they don’t use their wings for flying. They use them to swim. Rain forest trees adapt by growing tall trunks to
reach out for
a. Student exploration: computer required
b. Teacher guide
c. Student worksheet
b. Basic Needs – Plants 4.2.a.b.c.d.e.g.h.
(Note this and the next exploration are different but the student and teacher worksheets are the
same, probably an error on Discovery. Both activities are good though.)
Plants need water and nutrients. Have you ever wondered how plants move around the materials they need? Let’s
explore how plants transport these materials.
a. Student exploration: computer required
b. Teacher guide
c. Basic Needs of Living Things – Animals 4.2.a.b.c.d.e.g.
Why do frogs live close to a pond or a river? How does an owl find its food? Animals have physical features that help
them live in certain environments and find food. Let’s explore how some animals meet their basic needs.
a. Student exploration: computer required
b. Teacher guide
c. Student worksheet level one
d. Competition of Resources
4.2.a.b.c.d.e.g.
Animals need food and water to live. Many animals eat the same food. If two living things need the same food, they
have to compete for it. Let’s explore how some animals compete for food and water.
a. Student exploration: computer required
b. Teacher guide
c. Student worksheet level one
e. Food and Oxygen
4.1.b.c. 4.2.a.b.c.d.e.f.g.
What does a giraffe use its long neck for? A giraffe can eat tree leaves that are out of reach of other animals by using its
long neck. All animals need a certain kind of food. They have body parts and behaviors that help them get the kind of
food they need. Let’s explore the special features of some animals.
a. Student exploration: computer required
b. Teacher guide
c. Student worksheet level one
f.
Habitat Characteristics 4.2.a.c.e.f.g.
Did you know that a habitat can be a large area or just a small space under a rock! It is the place where an animal lives.
A habitat must meet the needs of the animals that live in it. Let’s explore the habitats of some animals.
a. Student exploration: computer required
b. Teacher guide
c. Student worksheet level one
g. Long Term Changes in Ecosystems 4.1.c 4.2.b.c.e.f. 4.3.d.
Have you ever seen a forest? Did you ever wonder what that forest looked like thousands of years ago? Was it green and
full of trees or might it have been a lifeless, rocky landscape? Most ecosystems that you see today have been formed
over a long period of time. Learn how ecosystems change and develop over time.
a. Student exploration: computer required
b. Teacher guide
c. Student worksheet level one
h. Organisms Needs
4.1.c. 4.2.b.c.d.e.f.g.
What do animals need to live? The same things as we do – food, water, and shelter! A habitat is an animal’s natural
home. It provides them with everything they need to live. Let’s explore what would be a suitable habitat for some
animals.
a.
b.
c.
d.
i.
Student exploration: computer required
Teacher guide
Student worksheet level one
Student worksheet level two
Parts of a Food Chain
4.1.c.d.f.g.h.
Plants and animals need food for energy. They depend on each other for food. Food chains show how living things get
food. What do you think is at the beginning of a food chain? Let’s find out by exploring food chains in different
environments.
a. Student exploration: computer required
b. Teacher guide
c. Student worksheet level one
j.
Parts of Ecosystems
4.1.b.c.f.g.h.j.k.1
Plants produce their own food using the sun's energy. Cattle depend on plants for food. If all the plants are destroyed,
the cattle would also die. If there is no cattle, you would not have milk to drink. Explore food webs and find out how all
living organisms depend on one another for their survival.
a. Student exploration: computer required
b. Teacher guide
c. Student worksheet level one
k. Population Changes
4.1.b.c.j.k.
4.2.b.c.
4.3.d.e.
Does one species in an ecosystem affect the population of another species? Explore population changes in an ecosystem.
a. Student exploration: computer required
b. Teacher guide
c. Student worksheet level one
l.
Response to Environment
4.2.a.b.c.d.e.f.g.h.j.
Have you ever noticed that plants growing in different environments look different? The roots, stems, and leaves of a
plant have adapted to survive in their environment.
a. Student exploration: computer required
b. Teacher guide
c. Student worksheet level one
m. Shelter and Defense
4.2.a.b.c.d.e.f.g.i.j.
How do animals stay safe in their habitat? They need to find a shelter or build one. They also need to save themselves
from predators. Let’s explore how some animals stay safe in the wild.
a. Student exploration: computer required
b. Teacher guide
c. Student worksheet level one
n. The BIG Role of Hippopotami
Use for Enrichment (grade 6-8) 4.2.a.b.c.d.e.f.g.
What role does the Nile hippopotamus play in its habitat? Find out how hippos help and also depend on other animals,
and why their dung is so important!
a. Student exploration: computer required
b. Teacher guide
c. Student worksheet level one
6. Fun-da-mentals
Similar to a virtual lab, fun-da-mentals lead students through a series of questions, facts and cool information while learning.
a. Exploring Ecosystems 4.1.c. 4.2.a.b.c.d.e.f.g.
In this Fun-damental, you will explore different ecosystems around the world. In each type you will learn what
kinds of plants and animals live there.
i. Student exploration: computer required
ii. Teacher guide
iii. Student worksheet level one
b. Needs of Living Things
4.1.c.f.g. 4.2.4.2.b.c.
What does an organism get from the habitat in which it lives? How does energy move through a food chain?
Take a bite of this Fun-da-mental and explore what organisms need to live.
iv. Student exploration: computer required
v. Teacher guide
vi. Student worksheet level one
7. Games
a. Amazing Animals
So, what do you know about animals? Be one of the zany contestants on this game show and find out! Play against the
computer or with your friends. See who can get the highest score!
b.
Animal Habitats
So, what do you know about animals? Be one of the zany contestants on this game show and find out! Play against the
computer or with your friends. See who can get the highest score!
c.
Arctic Tundra
Be a game show contestant and see what you know about the Arctic tundra! Choose from fifteen comical characters.
Play against the computer or with your friends. Do you think you can be the winner?
d. Global Environments
All organisms need food, water, and shelter. Many human activities change the habitats of plants and animals. These
8. Glossary
Each term is online; no hardcopy is in the binder. Terms have definitions, animation, video and
images to help support various learning styles.
Adaptation
the process by which the characteristics of a species change over many generations in response to the
environment (related word: adapt)
Air
the part of the atmosphere closest to Earth; the part of the atmosphere that organisms on Earth use for
respiration
Arctic
having to do with the North Pole or the area around it
Camouflage
the coloring or patterns on an animal's body that allow it to blend in with its environment
Carnivore
an animal that eats only other animals
Characteristic
a feature of an organism; something you can observe about an organism
Community
a group of different populations that live together and interact in an environment
Consumer
an organism that eats other living things to get energy; an organism that does not produce its own food
(related word: consume)
Coral Reef
a structure formed by the hard skeletons of animals that live in warm, shallow ocean water
Decay
to break down or wear away
Decompose
to break down into simple nutrients (related word: decomposition, decomposer)
Depend
to rely on
Desert
an area that gets little precipitation and has very little vegetation
Ecosystem
all the living and nonliving things in an area that interact with each other
Energy (organism)
the ability to do work or cause change; can be stored in chemicals found in food and released to the organism
to do work
Environment
all the living and nonliving things that surround an organism
Extinct
describes a species of animals that once lived on Earth but which no longer exists (related word: extinction)
Feature
a part of an organism that you can see
Food Chain
a series of events in which one organism eats another and obtains energy
Grassland
an area of land covered mostly with grass with few bushes or trees
Habitat
the location in which an organism lives
Herbivore
an animal that eats only plants
Hibernation
to reduce body movement during the winter in an effort to conserve energy (related word: hibernation
Interact
to act on one another (related word: interaction
Marine
having to do with the ocean
Matter
material that has mass and takes up some amount of space
Migration
the movement of a group of organisms from one place to another, usually due to a change in seasons
Niche
the place or role that an organism has in its habitat
Nutrients
a substance such as a fat, a protein, or a carbohydrate that a living thing needs to survive
Ocean
a large body of salt water that covers most of Earth
Omnivore
an animal that eats plants as well as other animals
Organism
any individual living thing
Pollute
to put harmful materials into the air, water, or soil (related words: pollution, pollutant)
Population
the group of organisms of the same species living in the same area
Predator
an animal that hunts and eats another animal
Prey
an animal that is hunted and eaten by another animal
Producer
An organism that makes its own food; an organism that does not consume other plants or animals
Rainforest
a forest that is humid and rainy for much of a year
Soil
the outer layer of Earth's crust in which plants can grow; made of bits of dead plant and animal material as
well as bits of rocks and minerals
Species
a group of organisms that share similar characteristics and can mate with each other to produce offspring
Survive
to continue living or existing: An organism survives until it dies; a species survives until it becomes extinct.
(related word: survival)
Swamp
an area of land that is usually covered by water and contains many trees and mosses
System
a group of related objects that work together to perform a function
Trait
a characteristic or property of an organism
Water
a compound made of hydrogen and oxygen
Wetland
an area of land where there is water on the surface or where the soil is completely filled with water for at
least part of the year
9. Readings
Although it may seem that these readings do not cover many indicators, they touch on most of the simple machines and
discuss various types of forces that will help to reinforce student learning. It is assumed that class discussions take place
after each reading in order to meet the indicators mentioned.
a.
Animal and Human Behaviours 4.2.b.c.f.g.
Living things have different behaviors. A behavior is the way a living thing acts in response to a situation.
b. Biomes Around the World 4.2.a.b.g.h.
A map that displays all the major biomes around the world.
c.
Can a Plant Live Anywhere?
4.1.k. 4.2.a.b.c.h.i.j.
Plants can survive only in places that meet their needs. The plants in different ecosystems have adaptations that help
them to meet their needs.
d. Ecosystems, Changes, and Adaptations
4.2.a.b.c.h.i.j. 4.3.a.c.d.e.
When the climate of an ecosystem becomes cooler, the new temperature affects the plants and animals that live there.
Many species do not survive. However, some organisms may survive.
e.
Food chains
4.1.e.f.k. 4.3.d.e.
A food chain shows how energy moves between organisms.
f.
Food Webs
4.1.e.f.h.k. 4.3.d.e.
A food web shows all the animals in an area and what they eat. In a food web diagram, arrows point from one animal to
the animal that eats it.
g. Food Webs on the Savanna
4.1.e.f.h.k. 4.3.d.e.
A food web shows the feeding relationships between producers and consumers in a community. In a food web of an
African savanna, the producers are mostly grasses.
h. Habitat
4.2.b.c.
Habitats must meet the needs of the organisms living in them.
i.
How a Habitat meets Needs
4.2.a.b.c. 4.3.a.b.c.d.e.
All organisms need food, water, and shelter. Many human activities change the habitats of plants and animals. These
changes make it difficult for organisms to survive in their habitat.
j.
How Living Things Get Food
4.1.d.f.g.h.
All living things need a source of energy to live. They get this energy from food. However, different living things get
their food in different ways.
k.
Living the High Life
4.1.b.d.f.g.h.k. 4.2.b.c. 4.3.a.b.c.e.
Learn about the parts of a rain forest, and the ways the inhabitants depend on one another.
l.
Producers and Consumers
4.1.d.f.g.h.
Organisms use energy to grow, to move, and to reproduce. They get this energy from food. Scientists can classify living
things based on the way they get their food.
m. What is a Food Chain? 4.1.d.f.g.
All living things need energy to survive. They get energy by making or eating food.
n. Where Animals Live
4.1.d.
The place where an animal lives is called its habitat. A habitat has many things an animal needs to survive. Think about
your habitat.
o. Why Organisms Need a Habitat
4.1.d.f. 4.2.a.b.c.i.j. 4.3.e.
The place where an organism lives is called its habitat. For example, a forest might be a habitat for deer. A swamp
might be a habitat for frogs. Many crayfish live in stream habitats.
10.Skill Builder
Interactive activities that engages students to listen, watch and read about various subject material while deepening their
understanding.
a.
Arctic Tundra 4.1.c.d.f. 4.2.a.b.c.e.f.i.j.
Do you know which animals live in the harsh Arctic tundra? Place some animals in the habitat scene and see if they stay!
Then watch them move, hear how they sound, and read some factoids. There are even video clips to check out too. At
the end of the game, you'll get a cool animal card full of interesting information. Be sure to get all five cards for this
habitat!
b. Australian Grasslands 4.1.c.d.f. 4.2.a.b.c.e.f.i.j.
Do you know which animals live in the grasslands of Australia? Place some animals in the habitat scene and see if they
stay! Then watch them move, hear how they sound, and read some factoids. There might even be a video clip or two to
view. At the end of the game, you'll get a cool animal card full of interesting information. Be sure to get all five cards
for this habitat!
c.
Bamboo Forest of China
4.1.c.d.f. 4.2.a.b.c.e.f.i.j.
Which animals live in the wetlands known as the bamboo forests of China? Place some animals in the habitat scene and
see if they stay! Then watch them move, hear how they sound, and read some factoids. There might even be a video
clip or two to view. At the end of the game, you'll get a cool animal card full of interesting information. Be sure to get
all five cards for this habitat!
d. Bangladesh Mangrove Forest
4.1.c.d.f. 4.2.a.b.c.e.f.i.j.
Which animals live in the coastal mangrove forests of Bangladesh? Place some animals in the habitat scene and see if
they stay! Then watch them move, hear how they sound, and read some factoids. There might even be a video clip or
two to view. At the end of the game, you'll get a cool animal card full of interesting information. Be sure to get all five
cards for this habitat!
e.
Canadian Rockies
4.1.c.d.f. 4.2.a.b.c.e.f.i.j.
Do you know which animals live in the rugged Canadian Rockies? Place some animals in the habitat scene and see if they
stay! Then watch them move, hear how they sound, and read some factoids. There are even video clips to check out
too. At the end of the game, you'll get a cool animal card full of interesting information. Be sure to get all five cards for
this habitat!
f.
Florida Everglades
4.1.c.d.f. 4.2.a.b.c.e.f.i.j.
Which animals live in the wetlands known as the Florida Everglades? Place some animals in the habitat scene and see if
they stay! Then watch them move, hear how they sound, and read some factoids. There might even be a video clip or
two to view. At the end of the game, you'll get a cool animal card full of interesting information. Be sure to get all five
cards for this habitat!
g.
Kelp Forest
4.1.c.d.f. 4.2.a.b.c.e.f.i.j.
Do you know which animals live in the kelp forests of the Pacific Ocean? Place some animals in the habitat scene and see
if they stay! Then watch them move, hear how they sound, and read some factoids. At the end of the game, you'll get a
cool animal card full of interesting information. Be sure to get all five cards for this habitat!
h. Sonoran Desert
4.1.c.d.f. 4.2.a.b.c.e.f.i.j.
Do you know which animals live in the dry Sonoran Desert of North America? Place some animals in the habitat scene
and see if they stay! Then watch them move, hear how they sound, and read some factoids. There might even be a
video clip or two to view. At the end of the game, you'll get a cool animal card full of interesting information. Be sure to
get all five cards for this habitat!
i.
The Serengeti
4.1.c.d.f. 4.2.a.b.c.e.f.i.j.
Which animals live in the African savannah? Place some animals in the habitat scene and see if they stay! Then watch
them move, hear how they sound, and read some factoids. There are even video clips to check out too. At the end of
the game, you'll get a cool animal card full of interesting information. Be sure to get all five cards for this habitat!
Videos
Animal Adaptations 4.1.d. 4.2.a.d.c.j. 4.3.a.
Welcome to Camp Wilderness! Join Counselor Tom and the campers of Team Five as they travel through the animal
kingdom and learn about the adaptations animals have make in order to live and prosper. Covers both the physical and
behavioral adaptations of animals in regard to getting food, water, oxygen, protection from predators, shelter, and
reproduction. Students will learn just how important adaptation is in the survival of all animal species.
No resources
b. Full video – 24 mins
a.
11. Animal Communities
4.1.c.d.f.b.h.j.k. 4.2.a.b.c.e.f.g.j.
The relationship of animals to their surroundings and their interactions with each other are explored in this film.
Examples clarify the concepts of environment, population, habitat, niche, and food chain. The film points out the risks
to animals involved in habitat destruction and pollution.
Video – 14:00 mins.
b. Teacher guide, student activities/worksheets and discussion questions
a.
12. Animals Around Us: Animal Adaptations: What Are They? 4.2.a.b.c.i.j.
Explore fascinating examples of how animals have adapted to their environments. From pronghorns to frogs and bison to
fish, this program explains the role of physical and behavioral adaptations in the survival of animals.
a.
b.
c.
d.
Full video – 14 mins
Blackline masters,
Teacher’ guide with additional websites for that contain information about animals.
Pre/Post Video Quizzes
Backyard Habitat: City Birds
4.1.a.b.c.d. 4.2.b.c. 4.3.b.c.d.e.
Molly and Dave turn the backyard of a New York City brownstone into a haven for city birds. They also visit Central Park
to do some birdwatching.
a. Video – 16:45 mins.
b. No resources
Communities and Interdependence
4.1.c.d. 4.2.b.c.
A group of plants and animals living together is called a community. The organisms within in a community depend on
each other for survival. Acorns, squirrels, bears, woodpeckers, and bees are discussed in terms of their
interdependence.
a. Video clip – 2:06 mins.
b. No resources
13. Creature Features: 5 Minute Video Series
"Creature Features" is a series of seven five-minute programs which focuses on the delicate balance of ecosystems. The
scientific concepts presented in this series include interdependence of life forms, animal habitats and communities,
adaptation and human intervention. This series will bring to school children a special awareness and appreciation for
nature and its processes.
Includes one teacher guide for all clips.
a. All Part of a Whole Program 1 in the teacher guide
4.1.c.d.f.h.k.
4.2.b.c.
Wetlands are used as an example of an ecosystem that will illustrate the important interrelationships among
animal communities and their habitats.
b. Space for Everyone Program 2 in the teacher guide 4.2.b.c.i. 4.3.b.e.
Animals need the right kind of places to live. The green salamander, example, finds a rocky environment
suitable for its survival, while deer need a woodland area, and communities of other creatures like oysters and
anemones have underwater habitats.
c. Changes to Environment Program 3 in the teacher guide 4.2.b.c. 4.3.b.c.d.e.
In some instances, creatures' basic survival is being endangered by human activity. The forest habitat of the
Delmarva fox squirrel, for example, is being cleared to make room for human communities. The Potomac
River, another example, which was once a dumping site for raw sewage and chemicals, became a deadly
environment for its inhabitants as well. Fortunately, some ecology groups are moving the fox squirrel to a safer
environment, and "Save Our Streams" and school groups have helped to restore the Potomac River.
d. Special Features of Creatures
4.3.b.c.d.e.
Program 4 in the teacher guide 4.2.a.b.c.i.j.
Animals have body features that seem to help them survive. For example, the hummingbird can draw nectar
from a delicate flower with its long thin beak. The great horned owl and eagle, on the other hand, use their
strong beaks for picking up mice and other creatures. Owls have sharp eyesight and very good hearing which is
exactly what they need to be nighttime food hunters.
e. Adaptation Program 5 in the teacher guide 4.2.a.b.i.j.
Comparing two different amphibians, one living in a watery environment and one living in a rocky world,
demonstrates how each has adapted to its special place. The hellbender, for example, with its flat broad tail,
moves about easily in a western Maryland river. The green salamander, on the other hand, can squeeze its flat
body into tight cracks to escape its enemies. Both animals have adapted to the habitats in which they live.
f. Creatures in Trouble Program 6 in the teacher guide 4.2.b.c. 4.3.a.b.c.f.e
Some years ago in Aberdeen, Maryland, the bald eagle's survival was threatened by farmers' use of DDT, a
chemical used to control insects. When it rained, the DDT washed into streams where fish ate DDT-soaked
plankton. Traces of DDT in the mother eagle's body caused her to lay very thin-shelled eggs that sometimes
broke before the baby eagle could hatch. Concerned citizen groups convinced the federal government to
outlaw DDT and save the "eagles of Aberdeen" from extinction.
g. Keeping an Eye On Creatures Program 7 in the teacher guide 4.3.a.b.c.d.e.
Animals are caught, weighed and released in order to keep records of their health, numbers and movements.
14. Ecosystems, Populations, and Habitats 4.1.b.c. 4.2.b.c. 4.3.a.b.c.d.e.
This three segment section introduces the classification of the biosphere into nine individual biomes.
a. Video – 5:47 mins.
b. Teacher guide
15. Ecosystems: Nature in Balance 4.1.b.d.f.g. 4.2.b.c. 4.3.a.b.c.d.e.
This program teaches students one of the most fundamental concepts in nature -- ecosystems exist in a delicate state of
balance. The beautifully filmed nature footage in this program shows how plants and animals interact with each other
and their environment. It shows how each element in an ecosystem is interrelated and that if any one part of a system is
destroyed all other parts are affected. It examines ecosystems ranging in size from an aquarium to a pond and points out
that the same concepts that apply to smaller ecosystems apply to the biggest ecosystem of all--the biosphere of our
earth. Also shown is how the sun's energy is passed from plants to animals and finally down to fungi and bacteria.
a. Video – 12:26 mins.
b. Teacher guide and Quiz
16. Exploring the diversity of Life Series :
EXPLORING THE DIVERSITY OF LIFE is a series of ten 10-minute programs that explores the large variety of species that
share this planet, examining the underlying role of that variety, its biological sources, its natural history and its intrinsic
value. The series crosses the curriculum beginning with biology including natural selection, ecology, morphology, and
taxonomy, earth science, language arts and social studies. All concepts are illustrated by comparing examples filmed in
the wild in North American temperate forests and Amazonian rain forests. The series addresses the questions: How
diverse is life in my immediate area? Why is it that way? Why is it important? The series illustrates genetic, species, and
ecosystem diversity, habitats, causes of habitat loss, the value of biodiversity, and the local, national and international
strategies to preserve it. No matter where you live, you have a relationship with the environment.
a.
Act With The Facts Program 10 of 10 pg 21 of teacher guide
This video illustrates the loss of diversity and the causes of habitat loss. Responsible environmental action
requires investigating and gathering facts to all sides of an issue.
b.
A World of Difference
Program 1 of 10 pg 3 of teacher guide
Illustrates the concepts of genetic, species, and ecosystem diversity, exploring the underlying forces that have
created this diversity by comparing habitats that produce more or less of it: tropical and temperate forests.
c.
Butterfly Garden
Program 6 of 10 pg 13 of teacher guide
Butterflies are a diverse group of animals that go through different stages and occupy different habitats during
their life cycle. Creating a butterfly garden with nectar plants and host plants, especially native plants, allows
you to observe butterflies. Other animals also rely on butterflies for food, shelter, and pollination.
d.
Don’t Be Part of the Problem
Program 9 of 10 pg 19 of teacher guide
The growing human population and human activities eventually lead to a decline in diversity among other living
things. Genetic, community, and species diversities are discussed.
e.
Forest School
Program 8 of 10 pg 17 of teacher guide
This program compares the ways people related to their environments in North America and in a tropical rain
forest.
f.
Go Climb a Tree
Program 2 of 10 pg 5 of teacher guide
To look more closely at the diversity in an ecosystem, it is helpful to examine some of the other creatures that
other creatures depend on, such as trees. In a forest ecosystem, trees are a keystone species. This program
examines trees and many of the plants and animals living in, on, around, and under them. The student is given
a first-hand view of trees in temperate and tropical forests to illustrate the diversity they create.
g.
Insect Diversity
Program 5 of 10 pg 11 of teacher guide
Insect species are among the most diverse on earth. The video compares insect diversity in temperate and
tropical forests to illustrate the forces that drive genetic species variation and ecosystem diversity.
h.
Life in Layers
Program 3 of 10 pg 7 of teacher guide
Whether in an ocean or on land, one way to view an ecosystem is to take it layer by layer. The program starts
below the ground in a forest, and works up through the emergent trees above the canopy, comparing the
layered habitats in temperate and tropical forests.
i.
Not What They Seem Program 7 of 10 pg 15 of teacher guide
One type of adaptation of animals is the ability to hide or not be easily seen through camouflage and mimicry.
These traits are passed down to offspring for survival.
j.
Rain and the Forest Program 4 of 10 pg 9 of teacher guide
One reason rain forests are more diverse than temperate forests is that they are wetter. The program
compares the effects of rain on the diversity of life in temperate and tropical forests.
k.
Insect Diversity
Program 1 of 10 of teacher guide
Insect species are among the most diverse on earth. The video compares insect diversity in temperate and
tropical forests to illustrate the forces that drive genetic species variation and ecosystem diversity.
The Wolf Project and the Black Bear Project 4.2.b.c.
4.3.b.c.d.e.
Cat and Sid meet up with Mario and Denis to track wolves and learn about the park’s wolf and black bear projects. The
Eastern Wolf has been greatly affected by human activities and loss of habitat; the species has been of special concern
in Canada. Conservationists are tracking black bears to understand their ecology and behaviors in the park.
a. Video clip – 8:47 mins.
b. No resources
17. Threats to Biodiversity: Why We Should Care 4.1.c. 4.2.b.c.d.e.j.
Animal and plant species are becoming extinct at an even faster rate than when the dinosaurs’ disappeared millions of
years ago. This threat to biodiversity, the diversity of all living things that inhabit the oceans and continents, is
unprecedented. The explosive population growth of humans has put all other species at risk. Using a case study
approach, this program focuses on four species that represent different types of animals and geographic locations..
c. Video – 24:00 mins.
d. Teacher guide, variety of websites for further investigation, vocabulary and Quiz
18. You in the Food Web 4.1.f.g.h.
Students will be fascinated at the role they play in the food web. Through real-life examples of food commonly eaten at
the dinner table, students will learn where their food comes from and how they fit into the web of life. Expanding on
food eaten at home, a more complex web of the forest ecosystem is also explored. The basic principles of food chains
and webs are revealed through the interaction of forest plants and animals, such as squirrels, deer, and bears.
Terminology, such as producer, consumer, predator, and prey are discussed. The way that energy and matter are
transferred through the environment is also covered. Students are urged to consider food webs in their own
neighborhoods, stressing the importance of food webs in their daily lives.
a. Video – 18:48 mins.
b. Blackline masters
c. Teacher guide and Quiz
Virtual Labs
19. Amazing Algae
4.1.c. 4.2.a.b.c.d.e.f.g.h.
Students try to find the ideal conditions for raising young fish in a tank. They explore the growth factors that encourage
algae cells to reproduce as well as the controlling factors that keep it from reproducing too much.
a. Virtual Lab- computer required
b. Student worksheets Level 1
c. Student worksheets Level 2
20. An Insect’s Home Sweet Home
4.2.a.b.c.d.e.f.g. 4.3.b.c.d.e.g.h.i.
Local farmers are losing their crops to insect pests. Instead of chemicals, they choose to use insect predators to eat the
pests. Students must find the best combinations that will not harm the environment and not use up all the farmers'
money.
a. Virtual Lab- computer required
b. Student worksheets Level 1
c. Student worksheets Level 2
21. Featuring Frogs
4.2.a.bc.d.e.f.g. 4.3.b.c.d.e.
Every year, there are fewer and fewer frogs in the world. What conditions help a frog to survive? Students change the
physical features and behaviors of frogs to see what helps them survive.
a. Virtual Lab- computer required
b. Student worksheets Level 1
c. Student worksheets Level 2
22. How Does Your Garden Grow?
4.2.a.b.c.d.e.f.g.h.
What are the best conditions for growing fresh vegetables? Students practice designing and conducting an investigation
using differences in soil, water, and light for two different plant types.
a. Virtual Lab- computer required
b. Student worksheets Level 1
c. Student worksheets Level 2
23. Pond-er This
4.2.a.b.c.d.e.f.g.h. 4.3.b.c.d.e.i.
Students help to decide how to develop a new local park with as little damage to the pond ecosystem as possible.
a. Virtual Lab- computer required
b. Student worksheets Level 1
c. Student worksheets Level 2
24. Save The Black-Footed Ferret
4.2.a.b.c.d.e.f.g.i.j.
Students collect data for a wildlife biologist about the ideal habitat for the rare black-footed ferret. They control the
environments in dual habitat chambers to record the animals' preferences and make recommendations.
a. Virtual Lab- computer required
b. Student worksheets Level 1
c. Student worksheets Level 2
25.Teacher Created Activities
Biome Hunt ( worksheet included) 4.2.a.b.c.
A biome hunt through three biomes, tropical rainforests, deserts, and tundra. As you travel through the different biomes you will
be seeing many strange and exciting plants and animals. These animals have made many adaptations to be able to survive in their
environment.
Biomes of the World (PPT includes video links) 4.2.c.c.
This PowerPoint uses internet links and United Streaming videos to explore different biomes of the world. It was created for a 3rd
grade class, but it could be adapted
Biomes1 4.2.a.b.c
This flowchart contains linked videos. Each Biome has a short video that goes along with it. Just click and enjoy.