In Endangered Animals Common Causes, students research an endangered animal to learn what factors threatened that animal. When students discuss and compare their research, they learn that there are common causes for endangerment. Use this sample rubric to evaluate their work. You can keep a graph of the students answers during discussion. This reasearch activity takes more than one day, can be used as an introduction to your unit, and is a great complement to the Zoo Class: Going, Going, Gone or Zoo on Wheels programs: Remarkable Rainforests and Born in the USA.
If you are looking for a field trip activity that focuses on endangered species and conservation, try the Going, Going, Gone Safari Hunt. Also download your copy of the answer key.
Students learn that conservation issues involve more than scientists as they role play in Tinicum Marsh, based on a local conservation issue. Using the TM Role Play Cards, students work in groups to reasearch and represent each stakeholder in the issue.