Lesson Plan

Trait Tracker

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This Trait Tracker lesson plan also includes:

Help mice beat the odds with an exciting activity about traits. Biologists discover the role of diet and other factors on animal traits by participating in a simulation activity. Teams collect and evaluate data to understand how certain traits give animals a survival advantage against predators before completing worksheets and taking part in whole group discussions.

13 Views 5 Downloads NGSS: Designed
Instructional Ideas
  • Have investigators present activity results during the follow-up discussion
  • Ask group members to research other advantageous traits animals have against predators 
Classroom Considerations
  • Assist participants with the assembly of game pieces as needed
  • Provide learning support as pupils progress through the simulation
Pros
  • Provides a step-by-step instructional guide 
  • Introduces young learners to complex concepts through a hands-on experience
Cons
  • Does not include worksheet keys with the activity