Begin the lesson by introducing the concept of instincts in animals. Explain that instincts are inherited behaviors that animals are born with and do not need to learn.
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Instinct
Learning Objectives
- Understand the concept of inherited physical traits and behaviors in animals.
- Identify examples of instincts in animals, such as nest building and migration.
- Explain how instincts help animals survive and adapt to their environments.
- Differentiate between learned behaviors and instincts in animals.
Introduction and Hook
Discuss examples of instincts, such as nest building in birds and migration in geese, to engage students and spark their curiosity about how these behaviors help animals survive.
Direct Instruction
Explain the difference between inherited physical traits and instincts. Use examples like eye color and body coverings for physical traits, and web spinning in spiders for instincts.
Introduce the video 'Survival of the Fittest' to illustrate how instincts and inherited traits contribute to an animal's ability to survive and adapt in its environment.
Guided Exploration
Facilitate a discussion on how instincts help animals respond to their environment. Encourage students to share examples of instincts they have observed in animals.
Use images and videos to explore different animal instincts, such as migration patterns in birds and nest building in various species.
Hands-On Activity
Have students create a chart categorizing different animal behaviors as instincts or learned behaviors. This activity will help solidify their understanding of the differences between the two.
Provide students with the 'Inherited Traits in Animals' assessment to identify traits young animals inherit from their parents and understand genetic similarities.
Independent Practice
Assign students to observe animals in their local environment or through online resources, noting any instinctual behaviors they exhibit.
Encourage students to write a short report on how these instincts might help the animals survive and adapt to their surroundings.
Check for Understanding
Conduct a class discussion to review key concepts, ensuring students understand the role of instincts in animal survival.
Use the 'What Are Your Inherited Traits?' assessment to reinforce the understanding of genetic inheritance and instincts.
Review and Reflection
Ask students to reflect on how instincts differ from learned behaviors and why both are important for animal survival.
Encourage students to share their thoughts in a class discussion or through a written reflection.
Assessment and Extension
Administer the 'Inheritance and Variation' assessment to evaluate students' understanding of genetic concepts and instincts.
Try the Quiz
For students who wish to explore further, provide the 'Inheritance, Variation and Survival' assessment to deepen their understanding of how traits contribute to survival.
