Objective

By the end of this lesson, you will be able to understand the basic concepts of biology related to Missouri and its ecosystem.

Materials and Prep

• Pen or pencil
• Blank paper
• Internet access (optional)

No prior knowledge is required for this lesson.

Activities

1. Research and Draw: Research different plants and animals found in Missouri. Draw and label three of your favorite plants and three of your favorite animals.

2. Food Chain Game: Create a food chain using the plants and animals you researched. Start with a plant, then identify the animal that eats it, and continue the chain with animals that eat each other. Draw and label the food chain.

3. Adaptation Match: Learn about different adaptations that plants and animals have developed to survive in Missouri's environment. Match the correct adaptation with the corresponding plant or animal by drawing lines to connect them.

Third Grade Talking Points

• "Missouri is a state located in the Midwestern region of the United States."
• "It is known for its diverse ecosystem, which includes forests, rivers, and grasslands."
• "Plants are living organisms that make their own food through a process called photosynthesis."
• "Animals are also living organisms, but they cannot make their own food. They rely on plants or other animals for their energy."
• "In Missouri, you can find a variety of plants such as oak trees, wildflowers, and grasses."
• "Some common animals in Missouri include white-tailed deer, squirrels, and birds like cardinals and blue jays."
• "Plants and animals in Missouri are interconnected through food chains, which show who eats whom in an ecosystem."
• "Adaptations are special features or behaviors that help plants and animals survive in their environment. For example, some animals have camouflage to blend in with their surroundings."
• "By understanding the biology of Missouri, we can appreciate and protect the natural beauty and diversity of our state."