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Endangered Species: What and Where?

Elementary, Middle

Description

Biodiversity loss is one of the most pressing environmental issues of the 21 st century. Although Canada is known for vast wilderness and abundant wildlife, our number of vulnerable plant and animal species is steadily increasing as a result of habitat destruction, climate change and pollution. This hands-on activity builds knowledge about endangered species and their habitat requirements through analysis and an outdoor exploration.

Students explore the school grounds to determine if any suitable endangered species habitat is available. They also consider improvements that may benefit wildlife. In doing so they will comprehend the role of education and advocacy in conservation while gaining new insight into how individual action can help preserve wildlife and their habitats.

The activity worksheets primarily contain American content but are easily adapted for Canadian students by using information about regional endangered species and a map of Canada.

General Assessment

Recommendation of how and where to use it

This resource supports Grade 3-8 science units that are exploring animal and plant life, ecosystems, endangered species and human impacts on the environment. Geography and Mathematics skills are used in creating species range maps and describing data using bar graphs. Students are also required to conduct research for factual information and organize written ideas into information pages.

During the lesson the outdoor exploration provides an opportunity for the class to become active citizens by creating some new habitats. Executing ideas like building micro-ponds or log piles would enhance the area for amphibians and insects while providing experiential lessons in caring for nature. These demonstration projects could also be used to inform peers, teachers and the community about the benefits of environmental stewardship.

Relevant Curriculum Units

The following tool will allow you to explore the relevant curriculum matches for this resource. To start, select a province listed below.