Distance Learning
- Grade Level:
- Upper Elementary: Third Grade through Fifth Grade
- Subject:
- Science
- State Standards:
- Utah State Standards: Standard 4.1.1 and 4.1.2.
Zion National Park encompasses some of the most scenic canyon country in the United States. Within its 232 square miles are high plateaus, a maze of narrow, deep, sandstone canyons, and the Virgin River and its tributaries. Zion also has 2,000-foot Navajo Sandstone cliffs, pine- and juniper-clad slopes, and seeps, springs, and waterfalls supporting lush and colorful hanging gardens.
With an elevation change of about 5,000 feet-from the highest point at Horse Ranch Mountain (at 8,726 feet) to the lowest point at Coal Pits Wash (at 3,666 feet), Zion's diverse topography leads to a diversity of habitats and species. Desert, riparian (river bank), pinyon-juniper, and conifer woodland communities all contribute to Zion's diversity. Neighboring ecosystems-the Mojave Desert, the Great Basin, and the Rocky Mountains-are also contributors to Zion's abundance.The park has more than 1,000 species of plants, approximately 78 species of mammals, 30 species of reptiles, 7 species of amphibians, 8 species of fish, and 291 species of birds.
During this live, virtual program, students will learn about the three major ecosystems of Zion National Park, and meet the unique plants and animals that thrive in each. Rangers will introduce each specific habitat through images and video, and engage the students in learning through activities, movement, and critical thinking.
By the end of the program, students will be able to:
• Name three major ecosystems in Zion National Park
• Name at least two of Zion’s animals and identify their habitat(s)
• Understand how plants and animals interact with each other in their various ecosystems
• State at least two adaptations of plants or animals
• State two ways they can help protect habitats
• Name at least two of Zion’s animals and identify their habitat(s)
• Understand how plants and animals interact with each other in their various ecosystems
• State at least two adaptations of plants or animals
• State two ways they can help protect habitats
This program aligns to the following national standards:
Next Generation Science Standards: 4-LS1-1
• Construct an argument that plants and animals have both internal and external structures that serve various functions in growth, survival, behavior, and reproduction. Internal and external structures that function to support survival, growth, behavior, and reproduction. [Clarification Statement: Examples of structures could include thorns, stems, roots, colored petals, heart, stomach, lung, brain, and skin.
Please email at e-mail us to reserve this program for your classroom or for more information.
Tags: distance learning
Last updated: March 25, 2022