Core Skills Analysis
Science
- Elling observed how birds construct nests to keep eggs and chicks safe from predators, noting camouflage, placement, and material choice.
- He identified squirrels as seed thieves and applied engineering thinking to devise protective features for a feeder.
- He experimented with recycled bottles, tape, popsicle sticks, and string, learning about material properties and simple‑machine concepts.
- He planned to monitor seed loss from each feeder, linking hypothesis to data collection and analysis.
Tips
To deepen Elling’s understanding, have him test two feeder prototypes side‑by‑side and record seed loss each day on a simple data table. Next, guide him to graph the results and discuss why one design performed better. Take a short nature walk to locate real bird nests and compare their materials to his feeder, encouraging sketch notes. Finally, let him write a brief explanatory paragraph describing his design process, the problem he solved, and what he learned about bird safety.
Book Recommendations
- The Nest Builder's Handbook by John S. White: A picture‑rich guide showing how different birds build nests and the reasons behind their design choices.
- A Kid's Guide to Birdwatching by Heather A. Smith: Engaging activities and facts that help young explorers spot and identify common backyard birds.
- Squirrels Are Not Birds! by Megan K. Lee: A fun story that explains why squirrels and birds have different needs and offers simple feeder‑building projects.
Learning Standards
- CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RI.2.7 – Integrate information from two sources (teacher discussion & bird‑feeder design) to answer questions.
- CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.2.2 – Write informative/explanatory texts about how the feeder works.
- CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.SL.2.1 – Participate in collaborative discussions about design ideas.
- NGSS 3-LS2-2 – Develop a model to show how animals (birds) depend on each other and their environment.
Try This Next
- Worksheet: "Design Your Own Squirrel‑Proof Feeder" with sections for sketch, materials list, and predicted safety features.
- Quiz question: "What three nest features help protect bird eggs from predators?"
- Drawing task: Illustrate a bird’s nest and label the materials used.
- Experiment: Hang two feeders—one with a lid, one without—and measure seed loss over 48 hours.