The Mystery of the Missing Hummingbirds

Elementary

Description

The Mystery of the Missing Hummingbirds models children asking questions about the natural world and conducting science investigations to explore the world around them. This classroom resource introduces environmental education  to students at a very young age through the use of a science- based storybook featuring inquiry activities.  The story's characters wonder why the ruby-throated hummingbirds have stopped visiting the school garden. The kids conduct an investigation, learning more about the needs of the ruby-throated hummingbirds and the seasonal changes that characterize where they live. Their investigation also explores the natural environment of Costa Rica where the hummingbirds spend the winter.

The teaching resource consists of a storybook and three activities.

  • All Year Long - Students will be able to describe the seasonal changes in a local habitat by making detailed observations, recording their results, making comparisons, and sharing information with others. 
  • The Colors of the Seasons - Students make observations outside during each season, recording as many colors as they can find. At the end of the school year they compare results and generate conclusions about variations in color within and between seasons.
  • Honing in on Hummingbirds - Students will be able to complete a research project related to ruby-throated hummingbirds and communicate their results using different formats.

The classroom resource includes teacher background information, text and web resources and supplementary activities to be used as a comprehensive unit or individually.

 

 

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General Assessment

Themes Addressed

Relevant Curriculum Units