Endangered and Extinct Animals

 Teacher Page

Students will learn about endangered species and what causes them to become endangered.  As the students do their investigations, they will determine that there are many things that contribute to the loss of a species, as well as the many thing that are being done to save animals that are in danger.

Students will form a support group called Save the Animals.  Each student will pick an endangered animal to research in books and on the Internet. Once the students complete their investigations, they will prepare presentations to be shared with the class.  The presentation will include a description of the animal, habitat, feeding requirements, what makes it an endangered species, and finally what it will take to save this animal

Why is it necessary to maintain the balance of life today and tomorrow?

What is an endangered animal?

What can you do to protect the balance humans and animals?

What is an environmentalist?

Do human beings damage the environment?

What are some animals that are on the endangered species list?

What does extinct mean?

Grade Level: 3-5

Unit Prerequisites

·        Students should be able read at least at second grade level

·        Students should be able to use the internet and have permission letters on file for its use

Access: Gather

• Survey your group to determine which endangered animal they want to study

• Gather articles containing information about endangered species

• Explore specific sites on the Internet to learn more about your endangered species

• Research your endangered animal in books

Interpret:

• Analyze the information you have gathered

• Deduce what caused your animal to be on the endangered list

• Interpret data to reach conclusions about what causes endangerment

• Prioritize the main causes of endangerment

 Produce:

• Produce a PowerPoint presentation showing the results of your research

• Draft an article detailing the results of your investigation

• Write your newsletter article

• Editorialize what must be done to stop the spread of endangered species

 Communicate:

• Articulate your views developed from your research in a news article

• Inform others of your conclusions about endangered species

• Present your findings in a newsletter and PowerPoint presentation

 Evaluate:

• Critique your research to see if you have developed a plan for helping endangered animals

• Judge your presentation to see if you have helped convince others of the need for change

• Test others to see if they have changed their attitudes toward endangered animals

Performance Assessment Plan:  

Teacher Resources