Format
1. Introduce polar bear habitat: the Arctic.
2. Polar bear Adaptations presentation with biofacts
3. Power point discussion about the Arctic food web and the role of the polar bear in the food web with a live animal (not a polar bear).
a. Also discuss how the role of good and abundant sea ice is crucial to the Arctic food web and what actions we can take together to help save sea ice!
4. Using photos and video, introduce Kali, the polar bear at the Saint Louis Zoo
a. Describe the story of Kali’s journey to the Saint Louis Zoo.
b. Discuss Kali’s life and care at the Zoo.
5. Conclude with a wrap up, questions, and a final video clip of Kali.
Objectives
The participants will:
• Make a prediction, test it and explain the results
• Explain how polar bears get water, food and shelter at the Zoo and in the wild.
• Name various characteristics of bears (mammals, carnivores, walk on flat feet, long nose, claws, etc) and explain how polar bears use them to survive in their habitat.
• Describe the vital pieces of the Arctic food web.
• Compare how animals adjust to the seasons and temperatures at the Zoo vs. in their native habitat.
Standards Alignment
National Standards
Next Generation Science Standards: 3-LS3.A, B; 3-LS4.C, D; 5-LS2.A; 5-ESS3.C
State Standards
Missouri Science Grade Level Expectations: III – 1D (5) a; IV – 1A (4) a,b, 2A (3) c,d, 2A (4) c, 3C (4) b,c,d; VII - 1A (3,4,5) a, b, 1B (3,4,5) a,b, 1C (3,4,5) a,b, 1D (3,4,5) a, 1E (3,4,5) a