First, I will discuss with the class different natural environments. What is a forest? What does it look like? What kinds of animals live in a forest? We will then discuss the terms habitat, forests, wetlands, deserts, and grasslands. I will then introduce the Habitat Poem (see attached) to the students, and we will recite the habitat poem. I will have a copy of the Habitat Poem on the SMART Board for students to view as we recite the poem.
Estimated time: 25 minutes
Day Two
On day two, we will begin by reciting our Habitat Poem. We will again review the four habitats (forests, wetlands, deserts, and grasslands) and review what makes up a habitat. I will then allow students to create a drawing of the habitat they would like to visit. Students will need to consider when creating their picture what animals live in their habitat, if there are trees, etc. I will encourage students to be creative and use their crayons, colored pencils, and markers when creating their drawing. Students will include a sentence attached to the bottom of their drawing that includes the name of the habitat they have chosen, and why they have chosen this habitat.
Estimated time: 25 minutes
Day Three
On day three, we will begin class by reciting our Habitat Poem. Next, students will present their pictures to the class. While presenting, students will include the name of their habitat and why they chose this habitat. At this time, I will grade each student’s drawing and oral presentation. After each student presents their drawing, I will allow students to break off into small groups of 4 and play The Great Habitat Match Up on the iPads.
Estimated time: 30 minutes
Day Four
On day four, I will announce the habitat that was chosen by the most students to visit. On this day, we will transform our class door into the most popular habitat. We will use the large rolls/spools of paper, along with construction paper, to create the components of the habitat. Students will be broken up into small groups and will be given specific tasks. Specific tasks may include: create animals, trees, water, clouds, rain, etc. Specific tasks will vary depending on the habitat we will create. I will create a large sign above our door that reads: Welcome to Our Habitat! On this sign, I will include a headshot picture of each of my students, along with a headshot of me (their teacher). I will hang each of my students’ drawings from the previous day on the walls outside of the classroom. On this night, the elementary school will have open house. This event invites parents to come to the school and visit their child’s classroom and teacher.
Estimated time (Includes only the activities taking place during school hours): 30 minutes