The fourth animal classification first graders are learning about is reptiles. We have discovered reptiles are vertebrates, have scaly skin, are cold-blooded, hatch from eggs, have lungs, and breathe air. Using a Venn diagram, students were tasked with finding similarities and differences among reptiles and amphibians. Tying measurement and adjectives into our study of reptiles, we read aloud Snakes: Long, Longer, Longest, a book comparing snakes. After reading, students selected snakes to draw, measure, and paint.
In addition to learning about reptiles, students are learning about the desert habitat. We have discovered many features of the desert, including the fact that all deserts are dry and get very little rain. We have found that while deserts are hot and sandy, many are not. Completing a book about desert animals, student are comparing deserts, examining desert animals, and discovering animal adaptations. Taking a closer look at camels, we are bringing a few of these adaptations to life. Today, we conducted experiments to simulate the pads of a camel’s foot, which prevent it from sinking into the sand. Tomorrow, we will make sun visors that mimic the bones that form broad ridges above a camel’s eyes to protect it from the sun.
