The ‘Species at Risk’ program at the Shubenacadie Provincial Wildlife Park is designed to meet NS Dept of Education General Curriculum Outcomes in all grades, touching upon the attitude aspect of science curricula. The important message behind this program is not only learning about species that are at risk, but what can be done to help diminish this. During this program, students learn how their actions can impact the future of species and habitats, forming a respect and appreciation for the natural world.
In the classroom students explore items from species at risk from around the world, such as furs, tusks, and plant specimens. Students investigate reasons why some species experience population declines, putting them at risk for extinction. Emphasis is placed on species that are at risk in Nova Scotia and comparisons made to how they may be similar or different from species at risk elsewhere in the world.
Applying their knowledge and skills from the introduction activity, students participate in a guided tour of the park. Through this tour, students may observe Nova Scotia species at risk, such as the American marten, Canada lynx, and the peregrine falcon. They learn about the endangered status of the mainland moose, and the success story of the bald eagle. Topics may also involve species that have recently experienced declining populations, such as local bat and bee species, and the consequences this has for humans.
To conclude students will share their experiences and brainstorm actions to help species at risk, on both a local and a global scale.
Groups have the option of having lunch in the classroom or from May 15 to Oct 15 groups can use our picnic/playground area.
For a summary of this program with curriculum outcomes, download our Printable Teacher's Guide