Herpetology Explorers Club: 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
1 live meeting
45 mins in-class hours per weekClass Experience
US Grade 1 - 3
Meet a live leopard gecko, corn snake, tiger salamander, and Russian tortoise 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 and how to recognize frog calls will be shared, plus species checklists of common North American reptiles and amphibians. Each week will feature a different group of amphibians or reptiles. Accompanying supplemental art projects and nature exploration activities will be provided. Each week will be independent of each other, and learners may join at any time. No prerequisite classes are required. Upcoming weekly themes are listed below: August 19: Crocodilians PLEASE NOTE: Class will not be held on August 26 or September 2. September 9: Reptiles of the World Week of September 16: North American Frogs Week of September 23: Poison Dart Frogs Week of September 30: Salamanders Week of October 7: Axolotl and Aquatic Salamanders Week of October 14: Lizards Week of October 21: Komodo Dragons Week of October 28: Snakes- Constrictors Week of November 4: Venomous Snakes Week of November 11: Turtles and Tortoises Week of November 18: Sea Turtles Week of November 25: Alligators and Crocodiles Week of December 2: Sea Snakes and Marine Iguanas Week of December 9: The Tuatara Week of December 16: Unusual Reptiles and Amphibians of the World 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. 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. September 14: 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) September 21: Salamander Slime Materials: ~cornstarch ~water ~bowl ~pitcher Optional: food coloring October 5: Play Dough Snakes 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 October 12: Crocodile Clip Materials: ~clothespin ~popsicle stick ~magnet ~printed template ~optional: googly eyes, sequins, puffballs October 19: 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
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
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
$15
weekly1x per week
45 min
Completed by 145 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 6-9
5-13 learners per class
