World Habitats

Introduction

What is a habitat? We know that it is a special place for something to live. But what important things does this place have in order for it to be called a habitat? In what habitat do certain plants and animals live?

Your task is to investigate and learn about five of the world habitats and find out what types of animals and plants live there and why. 

Key Questions:   

1. What are Habitats?
2. What are the animals that live there?   What are the features of these animals that allow them to live in these places?
3. What are the plants that live there?  What are the features of these plants that allow them to live in these places?
4. What are some conditions that are threatening and changing habitats?      
5. What will happen to the plants and animals if their habitats are changed?

Task

After viewing short video clips on the five major world habitats you will select the habitat that you want to learn more about.  Using the Five Habitats of the world webquest you will take an electronic field trip.  As you travel through your habitat you will collect interesting facts about the habitats environment, climate, animal life and plant life.  At the end of your study you will design a Habitat- In-a -Box to display the facts you've learned. You will then present your Habitat- In - a - Box to the class.

Process

 Choose one of the following habitats that interest you and that you would like to know more about.

  Rainforest * Taiga * Ocean * Desert * Grassland * Tundra

1. Click on the links that contain information about your habitat and take notes using the Habitat Fact Sheet. http://www.mbgnet.net/sets/tundra/index.htm
2. Pick two animals that live in your habitat. Click on the habitat links for information on your animal and take notes using the Animal Fact Sheet.
3. Select two plants that live in your habitat.  Click on the habitat links for information on your plant and answer questions using the Plant Fact Sheet.
4. View a video clip on the website http://pbskids.org/eekoworld/index.html?load=environment.
5. Answer questions anything that has threatened or changed the environment of your habitat and how that can affect animal and plant life.
6. Create Your Habitat.  Your habitat has many unique and interesting features. You will create a Diorama - a Habita t- In - a - Box showing the plants and animals that can be found in your habitat.
7. Present your Habitat - In - a - Box to the class with the introduction of each animal and plant, discuss the adaptations that are needed for the survival of these plants and animals in their habitat. Include anything that can threaten your habitat and what can happens’ to the plants and animals.  

Evaluation

Students will be graded on their research, Habitat - In - a – Box and oral presentation.  The Habitat Diorama Project Rubric will be used as the tool for evaluation.

Conclusion

Good Job!  Now you know all about your habitat! You are well on the way to having all of your information for your Habitat - In - a – Box and oral presentation.  Keep up the great work!!