Observing Bird Traits

Part of the "Garden Birdwatchers" Collection

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Goal

Students will listen to a book about counting birds and go outside to observe the difference between birds.

Estimated Time

45 Minutes

Setting Required

Outside

Standards

  • SKL1. Students will sort living organisms and non-living materials into groups by observable physical attributes.
    b. Group animals according to their observable features such as appearance, size, motion, where it lives, etc. (Example: A green frog has four legs and hops. A rabbit also hops.)
  • SKL2. Students will compare the similarities and differences in groups of organisms.
    a. Explain the similarities and differences in animals. (color, size, appearance, etc.)

Materials

  • Counting is for the Birds by Frank Mazzola, Jr.
  • Chart paper
  • Easel
  • Marker

Procedures

  1. Read Counting is for the Birds by Frank Mazzola, Jr. and discuss the different observable features that can be seen in the birds in the book (color, size, beak, feet, motion, etc).
  2. Outside in the garden, provide quiet time for students to watch for birds. Collect descriptions of birds as they are seen (color, size, beak, feet, motion, etc) on chart paper (words or sketches) and group the birds that are seen and described.
  3. Use a field guide to identify the name of the birds that were described.

Extension

Make bird feeders to encourage birds to visit the schoolyard.