The cost of the Owl pellet dissection mini-kit is $378, including shipping and <a target="new" href="http://www.donorschoose.org/html/fulfillment.htm" onclick="g_openWindow('http://www.donorschoose.org/html/fulfillment.htm', 300, 800, 'fulfillwindow');return false;">fulfillment</a>.
This year, I have the privilege of teaching science to two classes of fifth graders, for a total of almost fifty children! I was able to complete this activity with my class last year and it was one of my most rewarding and exciting labs in science - ever! I would love to be able to give this year's students the same experience.
Children love to get their hands on materials to explore them! Many of my students are absolutely fascinated by the world around them, yet are often restricted to simply observing with their eyes. Too often they are told "Don't touch!” I would love for my students to be able to not only study how the owl fits into the food chain, but also to be able to see, feel and smell the results of that chain.
In my fifth grade classroom, I hope to spend a few weeks with my students wrapped up in the world of the owl! As a social studies and literary connection, we will explore the Native American legends of the owl and read the story of Poppy by Avi. Using our fabulous math skills, we will measure the owl pellets, find the average mass and discuss the similarities and differences of the classroom set of owl pellets. Using dissecting tools, my students will carefully pick through the pellets to reveal tiny bones, which they will identify and possibly use to reconstruct a whole or partial skeleton. We can then discuss the different kinds of animals that have been eaten. The children will infer how the owls help farmers and why we should protect their habitats.
I believe that children learn best from what they do. With this proposal, my students will delve into the wonderful world of exploration where they can really learn about the owl and how its presence affects the habitat in which it lives. Hands-on learning is the most realistic learning that can happen in the classroom!
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As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. This classroom request for funding was created by Ms. Osborne and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.