Conservation
of Resources
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Lesson 3 Conserving our Endangered Species
In this lesson, we
will be learning about the awesome animals (and plants) that
are currently endangered and threatened with
extinction. As a starting point, let's complete a word
search to hunt for some of the very coolest endangered
crittters. To complete this word search click on the
following link and print a copy for your
group.
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Objective:
Upon completion of
this lesson, you should be able to:
1.) list several
endangered species that are found in your region
and
2.) discuss several
actions that can be taken to help save these
animals
Materials:
- Journal
- Pictures of animals
- Maps
- Books about endangered species.
Invitation:
Every year hundreds
of animals and plants become endangered as more and more of
their habitats are destroyed by man's increasing impact on
our natural world. In fact, there are currently about
25,000 species of plants and animals that are endangered or
at least threatened with extinction. Perhaps if
we could see or hear from some of these animals, it would
help to inspire our appreciation and commitment to save
them. In order to do so, check out the Endangered
Species 2000 web site and while you are there you can see
some cool video clips. As you explore this
interesting web site, please answer the questions
below.
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1. According to this web site, what is the general definition given for an endangered species?
2. Although no single reason can be given as the sole cause of an organisms extinction, describe some of the key factors that can contribute to this unwanted result.
3. Look at the species profiles to find out more information about some of the animals that interest your group in particular. Choose two of these and list their common name, scientific name, distribution in nature, and their current status.
4. In your
journal, describe how you would feel if you were alone and
the last one of your species on the earth.
You can do this by
drawing a picture or by writing a letter, poem or short skit
that illustrates how you think you would
feel.
Exploration
For the exploration part of this lesson, you must choose an endangered animal (or plant) that you feel deserves some extra effort and attention. Your job is to research and learn more about this creature and then develop a short project to promote the value and importance of this animal. You can write a report, build a web page, make a poster board, or write a play that emphasizes the coolness of your critter of choice. You could also paint a cave painting of your animal showing how it was in the gold old days.
To get you started, here are a couple of web sites that provide extended lists and basic descriptions of many endangered species. Upon completion of this project, each person or group should present their work to the rest of the class.
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Explanation
While we should be concerned about the loss of any creature, it is important to recognize that no species last forever and that extinctions have always and will always occur as part of the overall cycle of life on the planet. In fact, there have been five major periods in our earth's history where mass extinctions have occurred. During these periods, a high percentage of earths species have died out. These extinctions are usually measured in terms of large related groups of species that are called families. Explore the link below to learn more about these mass extinctions. As you consider the questions below.
Extinct
tasmanian tiger
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1. What percentage of species died out during the greatest mass extinction in history?
2. Describe a few of the most likely causes of these extinctions.
3. Many people
believe we are in the early stages of the sixth major
extinction in our planets history. Describe the
most likely cause of this most recent
extinction.
Top
Taking Action
The good news about
this possible current period of extinction is that we have
the ability and the opportunity to do something about
it. You can act in many different ways to help save an
endangered species and improve the living conditions of all
living things. As a start you can reduce your consumption of
resources, reuse things when possible and recycle your oil,
glass, paper, and plastic. In addition, try to choose
one of the following actions that you might want to devote
some time and effort towards.
1. Join a organization.
Many conservation groups are devoted to the protection and care of nature and wildlife. By donating your time and financial resources, you can help these groups to make a positive difference in the lives of needy creatures. Here are links to several effective organizations:
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2. Write a letter or Email
Letters are very influential and they are a great way to communicate your perspective. When you write it out, people realize that you have cared enough to take the required time and effort to focus your thoughts. You way want to write your letter to a local official or politician. Tell them how you feel about our current environmental problems and suggest to them some changes that could be made. You may want to also remind them that our earth is a priceless and fragile planet, and that we all need to take care of it.
3. Support your local zoos and reserves.
Many zoos will help to preserve a species by captively breeding them and raising them in conditions that are as close as possible to their native environment. Sometimes these animals can be reintroduced to their native habitats when conditions improve. Zoos also help to promote the value and importance of these creatures to people who might otherwise be unaware of their beauty and worth.
Conclusion
In
this lesson we learned about the plight of endangered
species and the mass extinction that is currently in
progress. We also discussed actions that can be taken
to conserve these creatures and restore their rightful place
on our planet.