SEEd - Grade 3
Lesson Plans

Strand 3.2: EFFECTS OF TRAITS ON SURVIVAL

Organisms (plants and animals, including humans) have unique and diverse life cycles, but they all follow a pattern of birth, growth, reproduction, and death. Different organisms vary in how they look and function because they have different inherited traits. An organism's traits are inherited from its parents and can be influenced by the environment. Variations in traits between individuals in a population may provide advantages in surviving and reproducing in particular environments. When the environment changes, some organisms have traits that allow them to survive, some move to new locations, and some do not survive. Humans can design solutions to reduce the impact of environmental changes on organisms.

Standard 3.2.5

Engage in argument from evidence that in a particular habitat (system) some organisms can survive well, some survive less well, and some cannot survive at all. Emphasize that organisms and habitats form systems in which the parts depend upon each other. Examples of evidence could include needs and characteristics of the organisms and habitats involved such as cacti growing in dry, sandy soil but not surviving in wet, saturated soil. (LS4.C)

• 3.2.5 Lesson Plan - Where in the World Do You Live?
  Thanksgiving Point lesson plan about animal environments
• Animal Adaptations Reimagined
  This lesson is an art integration lesson based on the following standards:  Standard 3.2.5Engage in argument from evidence that in a particular habitat (system) some organisms can survive well, some survive less well, and some cannot survive at all. Emphasize that organisms and habitats form systems in which the parts depend upon each other. Examples of evidence could include needs and characteristics of the organisms and habitats involved such as cacti growing in dry, sandy soil but not surviving in wet, saturated soil. (LS4.C) Standard 3.V.CR.1:Elaborate on an imaginative idea and apply knowledge of available resources, tools, and technologies to investigate personal ideas through the art-making process.
• Dolphins and Humans Fishing Together - 3-LS2-1
  This is a phenomenon video for 3.2.5. Science Phenomena: 3rd grade - Ecosystem Change
• Exploring Microhabitats - 3-LS4-3
  This is a phenomenon video for 3.2.5. Science Phenomena: 3rd grade - Ecosystem Change
• Habitats & Photography
  This lesson plan teaches students about the habitats found around the world and encourages digital fluency by requiring them to explore digital resourses and create an Adobe Photo Page.  First, students will question, discuss, view, explore, read, and research to build their knowledge.  Then they will demonstrate this knowlege by choosing a habitiat, selecting appropriate photos, adding descriptive informational text, and providing correct citations to their projects.  They will then publish and share their projects with their peers.  Intro Image Citation:Nambia Desert Sand, By FuN_Lucky,  PixaBay License https://pixabay.com/photos/namibia-desert-sand-dune-dust-2049203/
• How Badger, Skunk and Sage Hen Were Marked
  According to Paiute legend, the hawk and the coyote were not always animals as we see them now. Long ago, they were people, like you and me. The hawk was known as Kuhsawv, and the coyote was known as Soonungwuv. Coyote tales are part of the Paiute oral tradition used to teach proper behavio, natural phenomenon and values from an early age. These stories are only told during the winter time. The Coyote illustrates the mischievous nature in all of us. Students will listen to a Paiute tale and learn about folktales. They will also be introduced to the Paiute Indian Tribe of Utah, the location and how tribal members are working to preserve their language and culture. Students will also learn about how external structures and adaptations of animals help them to survive in their environment through a group activity. 

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http://www.uen.org - in partnership with Utah State Board of Education (USBE) and Utah System of Higher Education (USHE).  Send questions or comments to USBE Specialist - Jennifer  Throndsen and see the Science - Elementary website. For general questions about Utah's Core Standards contact the Director - Jennifer  Throndsen.

These materials have been produced by and for the teachers of the State of Utah. Copies of these materials may be freely reproduced for teacher and classroom use. When distributing these materials, credit should be given to Utah State Board of Education. These materials may not be published, in whole or part, or in any other format, without the written permission of the Utah State Board of Education, 250 East 500 South, PO Box 144200, Salt Lake City, Utah 84114-4200.