"Ewww!!!" That is always the response students have when they first find out about owl pellets. That response quickly changes to fascination, however, as they learn more about owls and their place in food chain.
My students are fourth graders who learn about ecosystems, food chains, food webs, and animal adaptations to their environment as part of their science curriculum.
They love exploring the interdependence of animals within a variety of ecosystems, and learning about the diverse adaptations which have evolved in various species over time to make them better suited for their unique environments.
My Project
Owl pellets are fascinating to fourth graders. The digestive system of the owl is so radically different from that of mammals, the only system with which most students are familiar. Having the opportunity to read books about owls, and then dissect their pellets, allows children to truly appreciate the miraculous adaptions of these intriguing birds of prey. Children always have a lengthy list of questions about the owls' diets, their sleeping habits, and their vision. They are curious about the information they have heard about owls in the past, and whether it is fact or just popular mythology.
These owl pellets and dissection kit will enable my students to explore the world of animal adaptations and food chains in a hands-on, self-guided manner.
It will give them an appreciation for the subject matter that can only come from active involvement and exploration.
DonorsChoose is the most trusted classroom funding site for teachers.
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 Mrs. Derouin and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.