New Animal Species Performance Task
Task:
You are a biologist researching the animal life of the four regions of California. During your research, you
discover a new animal that has not been documented in any scientific journal. You are so excited about sharing
this information with the world! You observe the animal in its natural environment, documenting the
adaptations that allow it to survive in its region. Make sure to observe at least two physical adaptations and two
behavioral adaptations. You get to name your animal and share your discovery during your zoo walk-through
presentations to your peers on 10/16/15.
Physical Representation: COMPLETED AT HOME
You will create a physical representation of your animal to share at the zoo walk-through. You can create a 3dimensional model (such as clay or papier mache) or a 2-dimensional drawing to show what your animal looks
like. Bring completed model by October 16th.
Placard: COMPLETED AT HOME
We will be creating a “zoo” in the classroom to represent animal habitats in the four regions of California. Use
the graphic organizer to help prepare you. Graphic organizer will be due by Wednesday, October 14th. We will
be using them to complete a different part of the project in class. You will be responsible for placing a zoo
placard (sign) in front of your model/drawing to teach students walking around the zoo about your animal’s
adaptations. The sign should have the following:
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Animal’s name
California region where it lives
Adaptations (at least two physical and two behavioral)
Oral: PREPARE AT HOME
You will be responsible for presenting your animal and placard to the class in a short presentation. Just the
information on your placard. You must be prepared to answer questions about your animal that are posed by other
students during the walk-though.
IN CLASS COMPONENTS
Oral: IN CLASS
During the class zoo walk-through, you will be responsible for asking questions about the other animals in the zoo. You
will have to record other student’s answers to your questions.
WRITTEN: IN CLASS
*******graphic organizer must be completed and in class by October 14th!!
Using the graphic organizer you filled out about your animal, you will write an information essay explaining the
adaptations of your animal. This will be completed in class on Wednesday October 14th and October 15th.
Rubric
Oral-25 points
Zoo Placard- 25 points
Graphic Organizer-10 points
Essay- 40 points