Objective

By the end of this lesson, you will be able to understand the basic biology of mice, including their physical characteristics, habitats, and life cycle.

Materials and Prep

• A computer or tablet with internet access
• Pen and paper for note-taking

Activities

1. Start by researching about mice using the internet. Look for information about their physical characteristics, such as their size, color, and body structure. Take notes on the key points you find.

2. Next, explore the different habitats where mice can be found. Find out if they live in forests, fields, or even in urban areas. Write down at least three different habitats and describe why mice are well-suited to live in those places.

3. Now, learn about the life cycle of mice. Find out how long they live, how they reproduce, and how their offspring grow. Create a simple diagram or drawing to illustrate the different stages of their life cycle.

Fourth Grade Talking Points

• "Mice are small mammals that belong to the rodent family."
• "They have sharp incisor teeth that continuously grow throughout their lives."
• "Mice are excellent climbers and can squeeze through tiny openings due to their flexible bodies."
• "They build nests using materials like leaves, twigs, and shredded paper."
• "Mice are omnivores, meaning they eat both plants and small insects."
• "They have a short gestation period of about 19-21 days, and a litter can consist of 4-12 pups."
• "Young mice, called pups, are born hairless and blind, but they quickly develop and become independent within a few weeks."
• "Mice are known for their ability to reproduce rapidly, which is why they can sometimes become pests in human dwellings."