GWL 5th Graders Engage in LI Science Museum: Endangered Species and Ecosystems Lesson

Earlier this week, the fifth-grade students of Glenwood Landing School were fortunate to participate in an outreach program titled, "Endangered Species and Ecosystems" through the Science Museum of Long Island as a part of their School-Wide Enrichment Services (SWES).

The young scientists discussed, “Why do animals become vulnerable, endangered, or extinct?” To answer this question, the students explored levels between a healthy species and the dangers of extinction. They learned that groups of animals can be healthy, vulnerable/at risk, endangered, critically endangered, extinct in the wild, and extinct.

The fifth graders were educated about biodiversity or the many different kinds of living things in a given area. They studied how different animals can experience several circumstances which can cause them to be vulnerable, at risk, endangered, or even extinct. These include migration, low birth rates, long gestation periods, and/or habitat loss due to forest fires, extreme weather conditions, or destruction. Additionally, the fifth graders learned how human beings can cause animals to be at risk or endangered due to overhunting, overfishing, pollution, poaching, and climate change.    

Students had the opportunity to engage in hands-on learning as animals including the Russian Tortoise (representation of the Eastern Box Turtle), chinchilla, and the black footed ferret were brought into the classroom by the LI Science Museum representatives. Animal furs, ivory bracelets, and snake-skin belts were also presented to the students.

A special thank you to the Glenwood Landing SCA, Long Island Science Museum, and Ms. Audra Marcantonio for finding this special event and many others for educational opportunities directed to each grade level. Go Vikings Go!
 
Article and photos by Shelly Newman