Reptiles have been around for quite a long time, some longer than others. Students will visit live animals in our nature center and learn about the fascinating adaptations of these modern-day animals that have allowed generations to survive over long periods of times.
What’s Covered
The class begins with a brainstorming session on how reptiles are perceived in popular culture and what myths the class might dispel. After learning about the adaptations, habits and physical needs of different reptiles, the class gets to meet and pet the Pali reptiles!
Lessons & Activities
Myths & Realities of Reptiles
Students brainstorm as many examples of reptiles from the media and pop culture as they can recall, reflecting on how these reptiles are typically portrayed and the accuracy of these generally evil archetypes. Just because they’re scaly doesn’t mean reptiles should be feared!
Reptile Biology & Adaptations
Students examine turtle shells, snakeskin and skeletons to begin to infer the biological adaptations that reptiles have inherited over time. As a class, students perform a Food, Water, Air, Reproduction, Protection and Space (FWARPS) analysis of reptiles, diving deeper into the specifics of key traits.
Meet the Animals!
Finally, students meet the Pali reptiles! Students have the opportunity to pet a turtle, tortoise, snakes and lizards!
Educational Standards
Applicable Common Core/Next Generation Standards:
- NGSS MS-LS4-2 Apply scientific ideas to construct an explanation for the anatomical similarities and differences among modern organisms and between modern and fossil organisms to infer evolutionary relationships.
Ready to Get Started?
Accelerate your students’ learning with our exciting curriculum. Learn more about this hands-on, experiential education activity today.
