Herpetology Explorers Camp: Reptiles and Amphibians
The study of reptiles and amphibians is called herpetology. What do salamanders and frogs have in common with snakes, lizards, turtles and crocodiles? How are they different? Meet live program animals and investigate bones & turtle shells!
Amalia Fernand, M.S. Nature/Earth Science
Average rating:
4.9
Number of reviews:(1,107)
What's included
2 live meetings
1 hrs 30 mins in-class hoursClass Experience
US Grade Kindergarten - 2
Meet a live leopard gecko, corn snake, and tiger salamander while learning about reptiles and amphibians! Learners will have the opportunity to ask questions and share observations about each animal. A photo slideshow of some of the most interesting species of reptiles and amphibians from around the world will highlight their similarities and differences and introduce fun facts. Participants will be invited to share their own stories, and Miss Amalia might tell about visiting the islands of the Komodo dragon, holding the longest snake in the world in Borneo, searching for tuataras in New Zealand, caring for baby sea turtles in Malaysia, or meeting chameleons in Madagascar. Discussion, games, crafts, and science experiments will help learners to have the opportunity to take a closer look at the fascinating field of herpetology. Through identifying alligator bones, turtle shells, and snake sheds and eggs, students will become familiarized with the terms for reptile body parts. Tips for finding reptiles and amphibians in your neighborhood will be shared, plus species checklists of common North American reptiles and amphibians. Day 1: Reptiles Day 2: Amphibians Topics covered may include: animal classification, ectothermic, reptiles, amphibians, herpetology, life-cycles, metamorphosis, insectivores, venomous snakes, crocodilians, turtles and tortoises, lizards and snakes, tuataras, Komodo dragons, monitor lizards, sea turtles, pythons, anacondas, keeled scales, and turtle shells. PLEASE NOTE: Classes may run up to five minutes over the scheduled time depending on learner discussion and questions.
Learning Goals
Students will improve their understanding of the unique characteristics that define the groups of animals known as reptiles and amphibians, plus learn fascinating facts about specific reptile and amphibian species from around the world.
Other Details
Parental Guidance
Scissors are needed for the recommended optional craft projects and parental guidance is required for the use of scissors.
Supply List
A variety of optional craft projects will be provided for before, during, or after class. Learners may choose the project that is the right fit for them depending on interest and available supplies. Please check the classroom for detailed instructions about project. Print-outs will be attached to classroom posts. REPTILES Play Dough Snakes and Lizards Materials ~Play dough, air dry clay, modeling clay, or something similar or make your own salt-dough Optional: google eyes, pipe cleaners, craft foam, buttons, sequins, a ruler, play dough tools Turtle Shakers Materials: ~small paper plate or cardstock/poster board cut-out circle ~small paper bowl ~stapler/staples or glue gun ~dried beans, popcorn, rice, small rocks, etc ~feet, head, and tail cut out of scrap paper ~coloring utensils or paint ~optional: google eyes, stickers Crocodile Clip Materials: ~clothespin ~popsicle stick ~magnet ~printed template ~optional: googly eyes, sequins, puffballs AMPHIBIANS Frog Wheel of Metamorphosis Materials: ~printed pdf. "Wheel of Metamorphosis Printable" ~2 paper plates (alternative: two circles cut out of thin cardboard or poster board) ~1 brad (alternative: pipe cleaner, paper clip) Poison Dart Frog Slime Materials: ~cornstarch ~water ~bowl ~pitcher Optional: food coloring
External Resources
In addition to the Outschool classroom, this class uses:
Joined April, 2020
4.9
1107reviews
Teacher expertise and credentials
I am offering this class because I have interacted with many interesting reptile species around the world and am passionate about herpetology and enthusiastic about sharing this passion with others. Reviews
Live Group Class
$28
for 2 classes2x per week, 1 week
45 min
Completed by 27 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 5-8
4-12 learners per class
