Module 4 – Assignment
In a Junior Infants class, I would like to use the Activity set, Weather – Animals in the Cold, to introduce children to the concepts of weather and animal adaptation. I would start with a picture book, such as The Polar Bear and the Snow Cloud by Jane Cabrera, to engage the children with a story about polar bears and penguins living in cold environments. This sets a context for learning and sparks curiosity.
I would then explain how these animals live in cold environments and the special features they have to stay warm, such as blubber and fur. I would then engage the children in a hands-on activity where they experiment with “blubber gloves” made from plastic bags and lard or butter, simulating how blubber insulates animals from the cold.
Following this, I would create a simple craft project where children make their own penguin or polar bear using paper and cotton balls, reinforcing the concept of insulation. Throughout the activity, I would incorporate discussions about the weather, comparing cold and warm climates, and how different animals adapt to their environments. This interactive approach makes learning about science and nature fun and accessible for young learners.