K-6 Science for the Next Generation

Lesson Plans
Structures for Movement

Learning Objectives

  • Identify and describe different external structures animals use for movement.
  • Explain how specific animals' movement structures aid in their survival and hunting methods.
  • Compare and contrast the movement adaptations of land, tree-dwelling, aquatic, and aerial animals.
  • Discuss how the environment influences the development of movement structures in various animals.

Introduction and Hook

Begin the lesson by introducing the concept of animal movement and its importance for survival. Discuss how different environments influence the development of movement structures in animals.

Go to the Lesson

Engage students with a question: 'How do you think a cheetah's body helps it run so fast?' to spark curiosity and discussion.

Direct Instruction

Introduce the main types of movement structures in animals, such as legs, wings, and fins, and explain their functions.

Use the video 'Animal Structures for Movement' to illustrate how various animals have adapted their body structures to move efficiently in their environments. This video supports understanding by showing the connection between physical adaptations and survival strategies.

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Guided Exploration

Facilitate a discussion on how specific animals' movement structures aid in their survival and hunting methods.

Watch the video 'External Structures of Animals' to explore how these features aid in survival, such as birds' feathers for flight and cheetahs' sleek bodies for speed. This video enhances understanding of animal adaptations.

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Hands-On Activity

Conduct a classification activity where students categorize animals based on their movement structures (e.g., legs, wings, fins).

Use the assessment 'External Structures for Movement' to have students label and describe external structures that aid animal movement, promoting understanding of adaptation and function.

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Independent Practice

Assign students to research an animal of their choice and create a poster detailing its movement structures and how these aid in its survival.

Check for Understanding

Review key concepts by asking students to explain how movement adaptations differ among land, tree-dwelling, aquatic, and aerial animals.

Review and Reflection

Encourage students to reflect on how the environment influences the development of movement structures in various animals.

Assessment and Extension

Use the assessment 'Animal Body Coverings' to evaluate students' understanding of how body coverings aid survival, reinforcing the concept of adaptation.

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Conclude with the Unit Quiz to test comprehension of the topic.

Try the Quiz

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