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3rd Grade  Lesson 45 minutes

Pet Pals & Wild Wonders: A Human Connection

אפרת ז
3-LS2-1
DA:Cn10.1.3.a
3-LS4-3
Self Directed Learning
Academic Mindset
+ 1 more
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Purpose

The purpose of this learning experience is to deepen students' understanding of animal behaviors and their relevance to human interactions. Through hands-on workshops, reflections, and creative projects, students will explore how animals communicate and form social structures, drawing parallels to improve peer relationships. By engaging with community partners and participating in project-based activities, students will develop critical thinking and self-directed learning skills, fostering a sense of identity and belonging within their classroom and broader community.

Learning goals

The learning goals for this experience are for students to understand the social behaviors and communication methods of animals and how these can be applied to human interactions. Students will develop skills in self-directed learning and critical thinking by observing and reflecting on animal behaviors, and they will enhance their academic mindset through collaborative projects and community engagement. Additionally, students will learn to construct arguments based on evidence about the survival strategies of animals in groups and habitats, drawing parallels to human social dynamics.
Standards
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] 3-LS2-1 - Construct an argument that some animals form groups that help members survive.
  • [National Core Arts Standards] DA:Cn10.1.3.a - Compare the relationships expressed in a dance to relationships with others. Explain how they are the same or different.
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] 3-LS4-3 - Construct an argument with evidence that in a particular habitat some organisms can survive well, some survive less well, and some cannot survive at all.
Competencies
  • Self Directed Learning - Students use teacher and peer feedback and self-reflection to monitor and direct their own learning while building self knowledge both in and out of the classroom.
  • Academic Mindset - Students establish a sense of place, identity, and belonging to increase self-efficacy while engaging in critical reflection and action.
  • Critical Thinking & Problem Solving - Students consider a variety of innovative approaches to address and understand complex questions that are authentic and important to their communities.

Products

Students will create short video presentations or skits that demonstrate how they have applied lessons from animal behaviors to improve interactions with peers, using specific examples from their own experiences. They will also design creative projects such as comic strips or storyboards that depict stories where animal behaviors positively influence human interactions, highlighting key lessons learned. Additionally, students will contribute to a collaborative mural that illustrates various animal behaviors and their human interaction parallels, fostering a deeper understanding through creative expression.

Launch

Begin the lesson with an 'Animal Behavior Workshop' where students interact with therapy dogs to observe their calming techniques. Facilitate a discussion on how these techniques can be applied to peer interactions, encouraging students to share their initial thoughts and ideas. This hands-on experience will set the stage for deeper exploration into animal behaviors and their potential influence on human relationships.

Exhibition

Students will organize a 'Wildlife Wisdom Fair' where they set up interactive booths showcasing animal communication techniques and their applications to human interactions. Each booth will feature student-created projects, such as skits or art pieces, alongside written reflections on the insights gained. Parents and community members will be invited to explore these exhibits, encouraging students to articulate their learning and engage in meaningful discussions about the connections between animal behaviors and human relationships.