Story and photo by Mr. Bruce Rhone
The Wildlife by Design program is an opportunity for teachers to work with the Texas Wildlife Association’s educational staff to develop customized presentations on wildlife and natural resources conservation for the classroom.
A member of Texas Wildlife Association’s Conservation Legacy team came to Varnett's East Campus Monday and provided exemplary lessons about animal skulls and skins.
The presentation met state science curriculum standards and during her stay, Ms. Jo Picken facilitated 6 sessions for grades 1-5. Students experienced multi-sensory learning during the 45-minute sessions.
The presentation met state science curriculum standards and during her stay, Ms. Jo Picken facilitated 6 sessions for grades 1-5. Students experienced multi-sensory learning during the 45-minute sessions.
Students remained excited as they were introduced to fox, cougar, prairie dog, raccoon and various other skeletal remains and exterior coats. They also were prompted to make connections between predator and prey as well as the functions and structures of teeth. All of the specimens were native to Texas and share distinct similarities such as the adaptation to the Texas climate and competition for natural resources.
Having experts in the field of science and mathematics visit with us to share information prepares our students. It also exposes them to adults from the Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) community and plants a seed for learning. Understanding the world we live in is key to thriving in it.
If you are interested in the booking with Ms. Picken, please contact the Texas Wildlife Association at (800) 839-9453
There are four pre-designed programs from which a teacher can choose – Skins & Skulls CSI - Animal Adaptations, Let’s Talk Turkey, Where Is Our Water?, and Investigating Life Cycles.
Mr. Rhone is the Math and Science Instructional Coach at East Campus