9/14/12
The subject of science is always changing. From the first man on the moon to our changing climate, scientists are changing the way they approach the study of science. Due to that, we must also support our students in their scientific approach to problems. The University of California Department of Paleontology has developed a site to support that initiative, http://undsci.berkeley.edu/. The links on this site give additional information for teachers on how to approach scientific study, and how it may be more spatial than linear. Take a few moments to explore and read the information.9/8/12
The Texas Wildlife Association is offering Discovery Trunks to compliment science studies in the life sciences. Take a look at the trunk descriptions below.* TEKS ALIGNED * 2 WEEK LOAN * AT NO COST * SUGGESTED FOR GRADES K-6
Animal Adaptations
More Than a Drop: Aquifers Uncovered
Texas Critters
Let’s Talk Turkey
All other schools in Harris and surrounding counties (Brazoria, Chambers, Fort Bend, Galveston, Liberty, Montgomery, Waller, and Washington) contact:
Mary Pearl Meuth
Education Programs, Harris County Region
727-366-1144
mpmeuth@texas-wildlife.org
For all remaining counties or for more information contact:
Kassi Scheffer
Education Program Specialist
210-826-2904
kscheffer@texas-wildlife.org
The Texas Wildlife Association also has distance learning for teachers. Below is the fall schedule.
FALL 2012
September 25
October 4
October 22
October 30
October 31
November 6
November 16
•Urban Animal Encounters: Skunks and Armadillos!
•ASI: Animal Skull Investigation!
•The Magic of Monarchs
•Urban Animal Encounters: Creatures of the Night!
•BATS: LIVE on the BIG Screen!
•Let’s Talk Turkey!
**Additional programs will be added throughout the semester**
Program Times (CST): 9:00 am, 10:30 am, 12:45 pm, 2:00 pm
Urban Animal Encounters: Skunks and Armadillos!
Meet the nine-banded armadillo and the striped skunk. Although their natural defense behaviors are beneficial to them in the wild, these same behaviors do not fare well with their urban cohabitants. Most people cannot help but turn up their noses when they think about these two animals, but after our class, we hope your feelings change. Join us as we clear up some common untruths and add clarity to their adaptations with the help of Mac and Segonku, our friendly guest stars! Grades 1, 2, 3, 4, 5.
ASI: Animal Skull Investigation!
This interactive presentation allows students the opportunity to investigate skulls of native Texas animals. Unique adaptive traits will be discussed and students will be asked to look for clues to determine the identity and feeding habits of our mystery specimens. Grades 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
The Magic of Monarchs
For such a delicate insect, the Monarch butterfly leads an adventurous life! During spring and fall, millions of Monarchs will travel through Texas on their way to or from their overwintering sites in Mexico. Live caterpillars and adult Monarchs will be on hand during the program, allowing your students to see them as they have never seen them before. Join us as we discuss Monarch biology, life cycle, adaptations, and migration. Grades 1, 2, 3, 4, 5.
Urban Animal Encounters: Creatures of the Night
Many animals come out at night and take part in their own “trick or treating.” In our communities and around our homes many people unknowingly provide treats for a variety of animals; inviting these animals to turn our habitat into their own. In their pursuit of food, water, and shelter, these animals often leave “tricks” or messes behind. Join us and our LIVE nocturnal guests (an opossum, rat, and ringtail) as we discuss their adaptations, habitat, and ways to friendly cohabitate! Grades 1, 2, 3, 4, 5.
BATS: LIVE on the BIG Screen!
This interactive presentation allows students the opportunity to investigate the relationship between the anatomy and the ecology, including the dietary habits, of different species of bats. This is an experience you will not want to miss. LIVE bats take part in this program! Look at their transparent wings, learn how a free-tailed bat gets its name, and watch them munch down on mealworms! Grades 1, 2, 3, 4, 5.
Let’s Talk Turkey!
This interactive presentation introduces students to fun facts about one of our state's most fabulous birds:
THE WILD TURKEY! We will discuss turkey anatomy, habitat, and adaptations, as well as the various "calls" or vocalizations that turkeys use to communicate. Students will listen to an assortment of calls and have the opportunity to take an up-close look at a real Wild Turkey. Grades 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
Please visit Connect2Texas (www.connect2texas.net) for more information about viewing options, to view Texas Wildlife Association’s program calendar, class descriptions, and to register. Sites must create a Connect2Texas profile, which includes basic questions about your school as well as connection information (please consult with your school/district technical contact).
For more information, please contact:
Kassi Scheffer
Education Program Specialist
210-826-2904 ext 113
kscheffer@texas-wildlife.org
