Animal Studies (4th grade)

By caring for and observing three animals from different habitats—the dwarf African frog, the fiddler crab, and the millipede—students learn about what animals need to survive, the primary parts of their anatomical structure, and the ways in which they are suited for life in a particular environment.

Students create and maintain individual logs in which they record their observations of each animal over time. These observations focus on animal behavior, including methods for food getting, movement, and protection. Toward the end of the unit, students apply what they have learned about structure, habitat, survival needs, and behavior to study a fourth classroom animal: the human. They also conduct an animal research project and decide how they will present their findings to the class.

Trainer Tips:

• Add pond snails to the frog habitat. They clean up the tank and keep it fresh.

Additional Photos

Animal Studies Storyline (pdf)

Living Materials Care Sheets

Supplemental Literacy Lists

Teacher Recommended Resources

Recommended Websites

Sponsored By

Student readers have been generously provided for this unit by Steven Van Dyke Memorial donations.

What are people saying about the Animal Studies Einstein science unit?

"Love this kit!!"
--Lori Schwab, Grade 3 teacher at Sheboygan Falls Elementary School, Wisconsin

"Students love observing and interacting with the animals. I enjoy the simple investigations."
--Molly Brotski, Grade 4 teacher at Sunnyside Elementary School, Pulaski, Wisconsin