Lesson Plans
Teachers today find it difficult to take the time to create lessons that both inform and interest students. These lessons have attempted to do most of the work for you. Age appropriate websites and activities are included in every lesson, along with suggestions in how to use them. Since this page is global in reach, the lessons probably have a great deal more material than you have time to use. Please feel free to pick and choose among all the various readings and activities, those that most fit your goals and standards and personal style.
Each lesson includes essential questions and national standards. Many of the web pages also include standards specific to their material. The materials are listed separately, and then again within each lesson so you can see a way to use them, or you can use them any way you choose.
The lesson begins with a Hook, to grab the students’ attention. Then each Procedure that is listed is a different topic. If you are only interested in animals, then skip the parts about plants or people or whatever else might be covered. Suggestions for assessment, and sample rubrics are also included. Some of the sites used may have activities that cost money, but the ones listed here are always free. If you don’t find a lesson you need, it may still be in development. Please let us know so we can do our best for our loyal, hardworking teachers.
Hundreds of animals die each year crossing roads. In areas with wide freeways, animal crossings, both over and under, have been created, saving animal and human lives. These crossings also boost genetic diversity, improving species health.
This lesson explores animal crossings, encourages students to design one for small animals, and shows real examples of kids advocating for more crossings in their communities, proving they can make a difference for wildlife.
Title: Turtle Crossings
Creator: Kathy Baka, M. Ed.
Age Group: 8 - 11
The best octopus book for kids looking to learn more about aquatic animals, marine biology, and aquariums, this delightful tale about a daring octopus's big dreams makes a wonderful gift or children for back-to-school, holidays, and summer reading!
Title: Local Animals and the Ecosystem
Creator: Kathy Baka, M. Ed.
Age Group: 8 - 11
Of course, the main thing is to love them, and that means to give them what they need: food, warmth, security, and the kind of affection they understand.
Title: How to Care for Pets
Creator: Kathy Baka, M. Ed.
Age Group: 8 - 11
The lesson also deals briefly with factory farms. You may want to check it out before deciding whether or not to include it.
Animal sentients
Creator: Kathy Baka, M. Ed.
Age Group: 8 - 11
The best octopus book for kids looking to learn more about aquatic animals, marine biology, and aquariums, this delightful tale about a daring octopus's big dreams makes a wonderful gift or children for back-to-school, holidays, and summer reading!
Title: Climate Change
Creator: Kathy Baka, M. Ed.
Age Group: 8 - 11
The lesson begins with a general description. It then breaks down the biome by continent, with each continent being represented mostly by activities about the animals, from which students choose only a few..
Title: Biomes of the World: Grasslands
Creator: Kathy Baka, M. Ed.
Age Group: 8 - 11
They look like dogs, so we are drawn to them as we are to dogs. However, we have also been taught to fear them: think Three Little Pigs, Little Red Riding Hood.
Title: Werewolves, indigo's or reality of wolves
Creator: Kathy Baka, M. Ed.
Age Group: 8-11
This lesson plan explores both sides and allows the teacher to present material that is educational and explores facts about wolves.
Title: Who's afraid of the big, bad wolf
Creator: Kathy Baka, M. Ed.
Age Group: 8 - 11
Please consider looking over the materials presented here, and their suggestions for more, before starting this biome. There is undoubtedly too much information even if your entire science curriculum is about oceans. The starred ones are recommended by SAFE Worldwide.
Title: Biomes of the World: Oceans
Creator: Kathy Baka, M. Ed.
Age Group: 8 - 11
Desert biomes are harsh but fascinating ecosystems characterized by extreme temperatures and low rainfall. Despite these conditions, they are home to uniquely adapted plants and animals that thrive in arid environments.
These lesson plans help students explore the distinct features of desert biomes, the species that inhabit them, and the survival strategies they use.
Title: Biomes of the World: Deserts
Creator: Kathy Baka, M. Ed.
Age Group: 8 - 11
We’ve created an engaging lesson plan all about wetlands! This comprehensive resource includes reading materials, hands-on activities, and interactive components to help students explore the importance of wetlands, their ecosystems, and the wildlife they support.
Perfect for educators looking to inspire curiosity and a love for nature, this plan is designed to make learning about wetlands fun!
