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Notes for Teachers

In this STEAM lesson for grades K-2, students will explore iguana habitats and learn how animals adapt to different environments.
Students will read the book "I Wanna Iguana" and use a nonfiction book and multimedia resources to research iguanas and their habitats.
Through a hands-on activity, students will work in groups to design their own iguana habitats using various art and craft materials, while also incorporating critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills.

List of Materials

"I Wanna Iguana" by Karen Kaufman Orloff (fiction book)
A nonfiction book about iguanas and their habitats
Art supplies (colored paper, markers, crayons, glue, scissors)
Craft materials (cotton balls, sand, sticks, leaves, small rocks)
Cardboard or shoe boxes
Technology devices (tablets or computers) for multimedia research

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Standards

Science:

1.L2U2.7 Develop and use models about how living things use resources to grow and survive; design and evaluate habitats for organisms using earth materials

1.L2U1.8 Construct an explanation describing how organisms obtain resources from the environment including materials that are used again by other organisms.

Educational Technology:

K-2.3.a. Students, with guidance, use provided digital tools and resources to find information on topics of interest.

Engineering:

Develop and use models

Math:

K.MD.B Classify objects and count the number of objects in each category.

ELA:

2.SL.2 Recount or describe key ideas or details from a text read aloud or information presented orally or through other media.
2.RI.6 Identify the main purpose of a text, including what the author wants to answer, explain, or describe.

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Objective(s):

Students will learn about habitats and how animals adapt to their environments by studying iguanas. They will use critical thinking skills, creativity, and problem-solving abilities to design and create their own iguana habitat using various materials.

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Agenda (85 minutes)

Introduction (Reading "I Wanna Iguana" and discussing habitats): 15 minutes
Research (Using nonfiction books and multimedia resources): 20 minutes
Hands-On Activity (Designing iguana habitats in groups): 40 minutes
Reflection (Group presentations and class discussion): 10 minutes

Total Estimated Time: Approximately 85 minutes

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Introduction

Introduction (15 minutes):

Begin by reading "I Wanna Iguana" to the class. Engage students in a discussion about the story, focusing on the iguana's habitat and why it may not be suitable for the boy's home.
Introduce the concept of habitats and discuss different types of environments where animals live.

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Introduction Resources

I Wanna Iguana Read Aloud

Nonfiction Iguana Book Read Aloud

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Research

Divide the class into small groups and provide each group with a nonfiction book about iguanas and their habitats.
Students will use technology devices to find multimedia resources related to iguana habitats.
Encourage students to take notes on important facts about iguanas and their habitats.

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Research Resources

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Hands-on Activity Instructions

Give each group a cardboard or shoe box to serve as the base for their iguana habitat.

Provide various art supplies, craft materials, and multimedia resources for the students to use in designing their iguana habitats.

Students will work collaboratively in their groups to create an iguana habitat that meets the specific needs of iguanas based on the information they gathered during the research phase.

Encourage creativity and critical thinking as they incorporate different elements into their habitats, such as a space for food, water, shelter, and places to climb.

Once the habitats are complete, have each group present their designs to the class, explaining the features they included and why they are important for iguanas.

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Reflection

After all the presentations, facilitate a class discussion about the different habitats created by the groups.
Discuss the similarities and differences between the habitats and how they reflect the needs of iguanas.
Ask students to share what they learned about habitats and how animals adapt to their environments.

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Assessment

Observe students' participation and engagement during the research and habitat design phases.
Evaluate the group presentations to ensure they include key elements required for an iguana habitat.
Assess students' understanding through their ability to explain the importance of different habitat features for iguanas.

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Differentiation

Offer audio versions of the books or read alouds for auditory learners to access the information.
Create mixed-ability groups to ensure that students with varying abilities work together.
Offer different levels of complexity in the habitat design activity. For example, some students can focus on the basic elements (food, water, shelter), while others can add more details or unique features.
Provide visual aids, such as templates or step-by-step guides, for students who may need extra support in organizing their habitat designs.
Allow students to choose from a selection of multimedia resources (e.g., videos, interactive websites, pictures)
Provide a list of key questions or prompts for students who may need guidance during their research.

Remediation

Extension/Enrichment

Have students create a short, imaginative story about an iguana living in their designed habitat. This story could include details about the iguana's daily activities, challenges it may face, and how it adapts to its environment. Encourage the use of creativity and scientific knowledge in their stories.

For advanced learners, challenge them to research and design habitats for other reptiles or animals with unique adaptations.

Offer additional resources, such as advanced nonfiction books or scientific articles, for students who want to dive deeper into the topic.