Grade Levels: K-4
Objective: Students learn about the migration patterns of various wildlife species and the importance of wetlands as critical habitats during these migrations.
Resources: National Wildlife Federation resources, local wildlife guides, maps.
Lesson Details:
- Introduction (10 minutes): Discuss migration and its significance for wildlife. Introduce wetlands as crucial stopover sites for many migrating species.
- Activity 1: Bird Migration Challenge (20 minutes): Students simulate bird migration by navigating through “stopover sites” set up around the classroom or schoolyard. Each site has challenges or food resources, mimicking real-life migration hurdles.
- Activity 2: Create a Migration Map (30 minutes): Using maps and stickers, students plot the migration routes of different species that rely on wetlands. Discuss how changes in these habitats could impact the animals.
- Conclusion (15 minutes): Review key learnings and discuss conservation actions that can help protect migratory routes and wetlands.
Assessment: Assess students based on their participation in activities and their ability to articulate how wetlands support migratory wildlife.
To access detailed plans and resources, explore the National Wildlife Federation’s educational materials (National Wildlife Federation).