Technology, books, film, podcasts, video, documentaries, blookets, websites…..

These are all ways that we consume information. But how much do we actually remember? Are we in information overload, where the abundance of outlets actually stifles our comprehension and learning?  

The 4th grade is immersed in a unit about the structures and functions of plants and animals. Might sound a bit tedious, uninteresting and dull to students, so enter live animals, plant specimens and taxidermy mounts stage right. The ability to see a creature up close and personal brings a sense of stewardship and understanding that are not as apparent with visual media. Students spent time observing specimens for structural clues to help figure out how they help the animal or plant get what they need to survive in their ecosystem.

Our live visitor was an adult screech owl named Cedar. He injured his eye many years ago and subsequently must live the remainder of his life in captivity.  Students learned that owls use a variety of tools to allow them to live in the wild. Eyesight is key to effective hunting in the wild. Another adaptation or function is their ear placement (one high on the disc face and one low). This ear placement allows owls the ability to hear sounds up high and down low. In addition many species of owl have feathers that have fringe or space between the edges, that enable silent flight. Helping the owl to sneak up on their prey in the dark!

We were lucky to have our friend Cedar visit the 4th grade science class. Cedar is just one of the many fascinating creatures that inhabit our big blue marble—Earth.