Mammals of Wisconsin Lesson Plan

Grades: K-4
Length of Program: 30 minutes
Time of Year: Year round
Preferred Adult/ Student Ratio: 1/10

Summary:

Explore the exciting world of mammals as your class learns the identities of some Wisconsin native residents. By looking at their adaptations, students will learn how they survive in a state with a wide array of temperatures and ecosystems.

Teacher Preparation:

Review the concepts of adaptations and mammals.

Academic Standards Addressed:

Science
F.4.1 Discover how each organism meets its basic needs

Special Instructions:

Please make sure students are dressed appropriately.

Materials:

• Mammal Pelts
• Rubber Mammal Tracks
• Mammal Skulls

Procedure:

Either in classroom or on hike, arrange students in a semicircle facing you. If possible, have students sit down so all can see. Ask the students what the term adaptation means. Tell them that you are going to take a look at the adaptations of several mammals that live in Wisconsin. One at a time, hold up the pelts, having the students guess what mammal it comes from. Tell about the natural history and adaptations of each animal, passing around the pelt, track and skull if possible.

Wrap-up:

Have the students name some other mammals that can be found in Wisconsin. Ask them what they can do to help some mammal populations around their homes.

Contact Information

Bill Volkert
Horicon Marsh State Wildlife Area
N7728 Hwy 28
Horicon, WI 53032
(920) 387-7860

Questions for Wildlife Management