Objective

By the end of this lesson, you will be able to understand the process of incubating chicken eggs and the basic biology behind it.

Materials and Prep

• An incubator
• Fertilized chicken eggs
• Thermometer
• Instruction manual for the incubator
• Access to a power source
• Clear plastic container or tray
• Water

Before starting the lesson, make sure you have read the instruction manual for the incubator and understand how to operate it safely.

Activities

1. Set up the incubator according to the instructions in the manual.
2. Place the fertilized chicken eggs in the incubator, making sure to position them with the pointed end slightly downward.
3. Monitor the temperature and humidity levels inside the incubator regularly using the thermometer.
4. Add water to the clear plastic container or tray inside the incubator to maintain the required humidity level.
5. Observe and record any changes in the eggs over the course of the incubation period.
6. Discuss and research the different stages of development that the eggs go through during incubation.
7. Document your observations and findings in a science journal or notebook.
8. Once the incubation period is complete, discuss the hatching process and any observations you made during this stage.

Seventh Grade Talking Points

• "Incubation is the process by which eggs develop and hatch into young animals."
• "During incubation, the eggs are kept under controlled conditions of temperature and humidity, mimicking the conditions a mother hen would provide."
• "The temperature inside the incubator needs to be maintained at a specific range, usually around 99-100 degrees Fahrenheit, for proper development of the embryos."
• "Humidity is also crucial during incubation as it helps prevent the eggs from drying out. The ideal humidity level is around 50-60%."
• "The incubation period for chicken eggs is typically around 21 days, but it can vary slightly depending on the breed of the chicken."
• "During incubation, the embryos go through different stages of development, including the formation of the circulatory, respiratory, and skeletal systems."
• "The eggs need to be turned regularly during incubation to prevent the embryos from sticking to the shell and to ensure even development."
• "Once the incubation period is complete, the chicks will start to hatch by pecking a small hole in the shell, known as the 'pip'."
• "Hatching can take several hours, and the chicks will need time to dry off and gain strength before they can fully emerge from the shell."