Hello Herpetology!! Today begins our 6 week study of Herps! Normally I would have launched the study by reading a book aloud while pointing out what herpetology is and charting the characteristics of amphibians and reptiles. It was probably more exciting than it sounds. So... how do I launch this study in a blended learning environment? I gathered a huge pile of nonfiction books about frogs, toads, salamanders, snakes, crocodiles, alligators, turtles, and lizards. The books and some plastic models were spread among our tables. I told the students that the books and models were clues and groups were to use the books and discussion to determine the definition of herpetology. |
Then groups were given a sticky note and asked to write all the kinds of animals they deduced were herps based on the materials available to them. On the second sticky note students wrote physical characteristics they noticed the animals possessed. And, on the third sticky note students wrote what herps can do or how they move. The room got louder and pencils were smoking! |