ProgramInformation

An inquiry-based science, internet and print research curriculum for ages 7-11
For classroom, library, afterschool, homeschool and mentoring programs

Supports one semester of study

Serious science that's fun!

Easy to administer - no software to install or learn

Celebrates saving species!

One curriculum materials package per classroom $50

Objectives for Students:

National Science Education Content Standards: Student standards A, C, E, F, G
National Educational Technology Standards (NETS): Technology Profile Performance Indicators (1), (2), (4), (5), (6), (7),(10)  Click here for standards details

--- To study the characteristics and life cycle of the peregrine falcon in the
urban environment
--- To develop the skills of scientific inquiry and observation
--- To develop an understanding of adaptation to environmental changes within the
peregrine falcon population
--- To appreciate the role that science and technology have played in the
recovery of the species peregrine falcon from near extinction
--- To organize resource data
--- To use telecommunications and online resources to access remote information
and to communicate with others in support of direct and independent learning
--- To evaluate the accuracy or bias of electronic information sources

Procedure:

--- Each student will receive a "Flight of the Falcon Trail" sheet, to document
completion of assignments. A feather is earned for each completed
assignment, several feathers lead to award levels ("Egg","Hatchling",etc.)
--- Each student will compile a personal bibliography, using standard
bibliographic form
--- Each student will keep a falcon journal as he or she follows the nesting
progress of a live camera online (a variety of websites are available that show
the hatching and growth of chicks each spring)

Assessment:
---  Each child or group will create a print and internet source bibliography and
will support the authority of the chosen sources
--- Each child or group will keep a daily falcon journal of observations of
nesting behavior
--- Children will produce drawings illustrating life cycle stages and falcon
characteristics
--- Children will both answer and create further questions about adaptations to
environmental change in the peregrine population
--- Tests and other materials will be provided for periodic assessment

Materials:
--- The "Raptors in the City" package (available in print or CD-ROM versions),
including a set of blackline masters, teacher's guide, resource lists to study
the peregrine falcon, a year's subscription to the "Falcon Flash" e-newsletter
written by a peregrine nest monitor for the Ohio Department of Wildlife
and other experts, and a copy of the resource book, "The Peregrine Falcon -
Endangered No More"

--- Classroom, library or home access to the internet

(Note: there is no software to install)

Timeframe:   to coincide with nesting season, roughly late February or March through June, although background research may begin earlier. Class time may be tailored according to depth of study desired.