tll2

Lesson 2

Summary:
The students will have the opportunity to use their new knowledge about reptile adaptations, by identifying local herps and their adaptations.

Connections:
Field Identification, Adaptations, Local Habitats

Time:
1 school day for exploration

Season:
warm fall or warm spring

Materials:
Pillow cases for collecting species, Herp field guides, garden hoes without sharp edges, gloves, and environmental classroom such as Miller Springs Outdoor Learning Center

TEKS:
5.1A,B 5.2A thru E 5.3A,B,D,E 5.5A,B 5.6B,C 5.9A,B,C 5.10A,B

Objectives:
The student will be able to:

1. learn safe field procedures

2. identify local herps

3. identify their adaptations and how they relate to their habitat

Procedures:
1. Give students a list of local herps that they can expect to see in the area.

2. Show them how to take a census on types and number of herps they do see.

3. Make sure that they can identify pictures of dangerous snakes they may see and emphasize that they only observe them and not pursue them in any way.

4. Go out to the area and have the students stay in a large group (approx. 10) so they can thoroughly search out herps. Demonstrate how to use the garden tools to lift logs, not to kill animals. Make sure to put back any overturned logs or rocks to their original position. Use the pillow cases to collect specimens. They cradle the animals and allow them to breathe.

5. Before you leave, count all of the herps that were seen and discuss the captures you made.

6. When you finish, release all of the animals back into their natural habitats.

Questions:
1. What were the adaptations identified today?

2. Were there any similar adaptations between these herps and herps from a tropical rain forest?

3. Students will generate more questions than you can possibly answer!

Evaluation:
Students generate a census and publish it in the school newspaper.

Expanding the lesson:
1. Take the students to the San Antonio Zoo to do research in the 'Herp House.'

Resources:
Herpetology 4320 by Dr. Casto at the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor

Reptiles and Amphibians, Eastern/Central North America by: Roger Conant

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