observing living thing local environment

readilearn: Observing living things in the local environment – animals – Readilearn

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Observing living things in the local environment helps children develop an appreciation for all living things, not just the exotic animals that feature most commonly in picture books and wildlife shows. It also helps them appreciate the diversity of living things in their local area and may stimulate an interest to know more.

Conducted over a week, including a weekend, observations can reveal a surprising number of creatures. If the observations are repeated throughout the year; for example, during different seasons, a greater diversity may be observed.

Be part of a larger project

While observations can be conducted independently as part of the class curriculum, sometimes you can be involved in larger citizen science projects such as these two Australian projects: the Aussie Backyard Bird Count and The Atlas of Living Australia. Data on The Atlas of Living Australia enables you to find out what living things others have observed in your local (Australian) area.

For those living outside Australia, you may find resources specific to your location by searching National Geographic, Scientific American or simply by conducting an internet search.

Books and other resources

While many species observed may be identified through an internet search, particularly using the resource section of your local museums, it is also useful to source books about the wildlife of your area, or to seek out local groups and experts to assist identification and to develop understanding of local habitats and living things.

Circle picture book by Jeannie Baker

Include picture books if possible too. For example, earlier this week I had the pleasure of attending the launch of an exhibition of collages created by Australian author and illustrator Jeannie Baker to continue reading

Source: readilearn: Observing living things in the local environment – animals – Readilearn

13 thoughts on “readilearn: Observing living things in the local environment – animals – Readilearn”

  2. Jennie

    You are so right, Norah. I attended a workshop recently that stressed the importance of young children seeing and discovering their own world first. Pictures of the woods is far better than a poster of Hawaii for children here in New England, for example. Then, the same applies to hands-on discovery, which is what you write about. Thank you for an important post.

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    1. Norah Post author

      Thank you, Jennie. Oh, I do agree with the message of that workshop. I’m sure you were already doing that too. We’re both rather keen on the local environment and hands-on discovery. Thank you for your encouraging words.

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  3. Christy B

    What stood out to me with this post Norah was that you were encouraging children to learn more than just the curriculum when it comes to living things. After all, why limit the curiosity of a child? Those larger citizen science projects sound very neat!

    Liked by 1 person

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    1. Norah Post author

      I’m so pleased you read and enjoyed “Circle”, Patricia. I wasn’t sure if you would have it over there yet. Thank you for your lovely comment.

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