Learners research and assess programs that strive to preserve biodiversity, such as captive-breeding programs and species-survival plans adopted by zoos, aquariums, and other institutions.

In this polar bears instructional activity, students answer short answer questions about how polar bear's needs are met at the zoo. Students complete 6 questions.

Photographs and graphics bring the solar system and Earth to life in this presentation. Viewers are taken on a virtual field trip, beginning with the sun and planet placement, and proceeding through both Earth and the moon's movements....

Energize biologists with colorful images in an activity that captivates the imagination while demystifying the subject of cellular respiration. Participants build comprehension skills and access core content knowledge by analyzing text...

Students "save" a rare duck (or goose, or swan) from extinction by "building" a sanctuary to protect and breed it in captivity. They research what the bird needs and draw the species and its enclosure.

Students discover the role zoos play in conservation of animals. They research the captive breeding programs that are in place at the Minnesota Zoo. They use the zoo's website to find the American Zoo and Aquarium Associations criteria...

Travel through space as you learn about the galaxy, solar system, planets, and much more. An extensive resource for studying astronomy in upper-elementary and middle school classrooms.

Who's your Daddy ... and Mommy for that matter? Given a first-generation group of gummy bear offspring, young scientists must determine which bears are their parents. An activity worksheet covers the differences in genotypes and...

Second graders explore what life in the Chicago area was like hundreds of years ago. They discuss how settlers impacted the environment, and why there are no longer herds of buffalo in the Chicago area today. They read an article and...

Learners determine

Students research sites about Gila monsters. They explore the physical characteristics and defense mechanisms that help Gila monsters survive in the desert. Includes photographs and a diagram.

Students read, write and reflect on Science articles, this approach will promote both literacy and critical thinking skills. Critical thinking skills learned in the science classroom from these activities will impact students in many...

Students are introduced to raptors and their role in the environment. They identify three characteristics of raptors and list several types of raptors found in nature. They discuss their positive and negative experiences with raptors and...

Students pick an endangered animal to research and report their findings to the class.

An article on the care of captive Bothrops asper snakes. Sometimes referred to as the fer-de-lance or lancehead, this species requires specialized care due to the size of its large fangs and somewhat unpredictable behavior.

Giant Pandas only live in the mountains of southwest China. This article focuses on Giant Panda habitat, diet, life cycle and reproduction. Extensive information is given on panda babies and the contrast between life in the wild and life...

Learn about the lives of gorillas born in captivity in this video segment from Nature. [8:21]