Age: Grade(s) grade 01, grade 02, grade 03, grade 04, grade 05, grade 06, grade 07, grade 08, grade 09, grade 10, grade 11, grade 12, kindergarten
Subjects: art, biology, environmental problems, geography, health, industrial arts, language arts, mathematics, physical education, science, social studies
Skills: analysis, classification, communication, composition, cooperation, discussion, drawing, evaluation, interpretation, observation, planning, problem solving, reading, research
Duration: one or two 45-minute periods plus at least one full day for a wildlife habitat project
Group Size: small groups working simultaneously
Setting: indoors and outdoors
Objectives
Students will:
- collect and organize data relating to migratory species and habitats;
- undertake a habitat action plan, then maintain planting and building projects for continuing benefit to wildlife;
- understand the unique needs of migratory species, whose habitats serve as essential links in seasonal routes;
- learn how to work in partnership with community members, such as parents, neighbours, naturalists, and local businesses;
- form a positive attitude toward migratory species and their habitats and become motivated to conserve them;
- discover the link between habitat health and human activities; and
- develop a sense of responsibility toward migratory species and spaces through habitat projects.
Procedure
- Assign "Migratory Species Need Migratory Spaces" and "Make Way for Wild Migrants" to students as homework or as a classroom reading activity.
- Discuss, on the basis of the reading assignment, the importance of breeding, wintering, and transient habitats to migratory species. Consider how these habitats serve as national and international links in migratory routes, how humans can help or harm these spaces, and the need for habitat enhancement projects.
- Having grasped the basics, students are ready to draw up a habitat action plan according to "Make Your Project Happen".
- Get permission from parents and your school principal, as well as your municipality or landowners, before launching projects. Ask an area bylaws officer or conservation authority if there are regulations that you must follow.
- Network with your community, getting as many volunteers involved as possible. Seek help from parents, businesses, nurseries, naturalists, horticultural clubs, civic organizations, wildlife agencies, and seniors' groups.
- Using one or more projects, students can now dig in and enhance habitat in their schoolyard or community.
Teacher's Tips
- Urge students to pursue conservation objectives by becoming knowledgeable about the habitat needs of migratory species and by devising an action plan (including diagrams, estimated costs, and long-term goals).
- Before undertaking habitat projects, obtain permission from local landowners or your municipality and consult with a bylaws officer.
- At project sites, post weatherproof signs to inform passers-by of your objectives.
- Use only plants, trees, and shrubs native to your ecological area.
- Ensure the longevity of your project by involving several grades and collaborating with community groups.
- Consult with experts, such as conservation officers and wildlife biologists, to give your project a strong foundation.
- For safety's sake, always work in small groups and recruit older students, parents, community volunteers, or other helpers.
- Take extra care when working near water or in wooded areas.
- Bring along a first-aid kit, Epipen, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
- Make sure students wear suitable clothing and footwear.
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