Authentic Learning About Pets

After reading Chapter 3 of Worksheets Don't Build Dendrites about field trips, I'm on even more of a mission to incorporate as many field trips and other experiences for my students as possible.

We have been learning about animals over the last week or so.  I contacted a local pet store and asked one of the employees to bring in an assortment of pets, but no "typical" pets like cats and dogs.  I wanted to students to experience pets that they might otherwise not see.  I did this with my class last year, and it was a big hit.  This year, they were kind enough to include all the kindergarten classes.

Two young men presented 20 minute sessions to 2 classes at a time.  We learned about how to care for each of the animals, the life span and other cool facts.  Students were then given the opportunity to touch each animal; this was, of course, the highlight for them!

Bunny

This was a "no thank you" for me!  The kids loved the colors of this snake.

Fainting beetle

A baby lizard (bearded dragon maybe?)

Baby tortoise

After seeing and touching all the animals, we were able to see a larger (6 yrs. old) tortoise and the bunny snack on some lettuce.

I'm hoping to be back soon back on track with the Worksheets Don't Build Dendrites book study!