Animal Classification- Animals in the Classroom

Objectives: SWBAT- Identify and list characteristics for five major vertebrate     groups and two invertebrate groups.
           - Record Scientific observations based on what they see.
           - Distinguish between all animal members present by physical     and behavioral characteristics.

Materials: Am animal representative for each of the seven groups. Australian  Zebra Finches (bird), Hamster (mammal), Goldfish (fish), Asian Box Turtle  (reptile), South American Chubby Frog (Amphibian), Tarantula (spider), and a  Cricket (insect).

Prompt: All the animals set up at their stations when the children come back from  specials.
Procedure: Explain to children that they are going to be making scientific  observations on live animals. Instruct exactly how they are to treat the  animals and the consequences that will follow if the rules are broken. Give  out observation sheets. Walk around and answer questions as needed. If  some children finish early, have them walk around and help anyone who is  stuck.
Closure: Have the group come back together and discuss their findings.

Assessment: Observation sheets will be checked for completion and accuracy.