MAJOR OBJECTIVES:

• To understand and apply the concepts of taxonomy including kingdoms and divisions
• To understand and apply scientific naming to observations of birds
• To use characteristics, habitat, feeding behavior, and nesting behavior in the description and classification of birds
• To use the computer to classify and analyze data and prepare a report

GRADE LEVEL: 7

MATERIALS CHECKLIST:

• One or multiple computers; printer
• Software: integrated software package (spreadsheet, database, word processor)
• Bird guide books or access to the library for research
• Teacher-prepared database templates and student worksheets

TIME REQUIRED: 7 - 10 class periods

ACTIVITIES AND PROCEDURES:

• Hand out the bird guide worksheets and let the students choose a bird to study.
• Allow two or three class periods for students to complete library research on their chosen birds and to prepare their reports.
• Show the students how to enter data into the computer database and have them take turns entering their bird data.
• Show students how to use the word processor and have them keyboard their report into the computer. Have them proof their own reports and the report of the person next to them and then print out the final report.
• Have the students find a drawing of their birds and draw or trace them onto the final report.

FOLLOW-UP/EXTENSION: This activity could be applied to any group of organisms. A field trip could be arranged to a local park, zoo, museum or nature center. The sale of bird guides could be used as a fund raiser.