Format
Introduction:
The presenter will introduce the virtual programs experience and explain guidelines for respectful participation throughout the program.
What’s In the Box?
Students will play a game called “What’s in the Box?” where they will use clues to identify hidden natural history specimens from Minnesota.
Minnesota’s Biomes
Hopping in a time machine, students will then learn about Minnesota’s major biomes (past and present) and draw their own map of Minnesota.
Native Plants and Animals:
Students will meet and learn about several live animals that live at the Bell Museum, as well as plant specimens from the Bell Museum’s herbarium.
Wrap Up:
After hearing from a researcher at the University of Minnesota, the program will wrap up by engaging students on how they can be good environmental stewards. Any remaining time will be available for student questions!
Objectives
1. Students will learn about Minnesota’s four distinct biomes.
2. Students will make observations about the adaptations plants and animals use to survive in each biome.
3. Students will learn the difference between a biome and an ecosystem and why they are important.
Standards Alignment
State Standards
Connections to Minnesota 2019 Science Standards:
3L.3.2.1.1 Construct an explanation using evidence from various sources for how the variations in characteristics among individuals of the same species may provide advantages in surviving, finding mates, and reproducing.
3L.4.1.1.1 Construct an argument about strategies animals use to survive. Emphasis is on group behavior and how being part of a group helps animals obtain food, defend themselves, and cope with changes.
3L.4.2.1.1 Obtain information from various types of media to support an argument that plants and animals have internal and external structures that function to support survival, growth, behavior, and reproduction.
4L.4.1.1.1 Construct or support an argument that traits can be influenced by different environments.