Lesson Plan

Guess Hoo's for Dinner- Grades 4 and 5

An owl stares at the camera.
Grade Level:
Upper Elementary: Third Grade through Fifth Grade
Subject:
Science
Lesson Duration:
60 Minutes

Essential Question

How do owls' unique adaptations make them successful nocturnal hunters/predators?

Objective

After completing this program, 4th and 5th grade students will be
able to:
1. List and explain three unique hunting adaptations of owls.
2. Describe what an owl pellet is, why owls produce them and how
they are produced.
3. Name at least three things that might be found in an owl pellet.
4. Demonstrate the vocalizations owls make and why.

Background

What can you learn about owls in Sequoia National Park? This predator/prey discovery program is complete with food web discussions and owl pellet (replica) dissection. Students will perform their own owl pellet dissection and identify prey using their new knowledge of skull and bone characteristics.

Preparation

Prior to your scheduled meeting with the ranger, download the pre-visit activity and share with your students. Review the ranger lesson plan for themes to discuss with your class before the visit but do not teach the lesson. All lesson plans are available on the website. After the visit, download and review post-visit activities with your class.  Provide feedback to the rangers about what your class enjoyed and how we can improve. 

Materials

Download Pellet Dissection Worksheet

Download 4th Grade Pre-Visit Activity

Download 4th Grade Post-Visit Activity

Download 5th Grade Pre-Visit Activity

Download 5th Grade Post-Visit Activity

Procedure

Incorporate Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks into your lesson plan. 

  1. Browse the site for the appropriate program/field trip for your classroom.  
  2. Follow the instructions to choose a program and make a formal request.  
  3. Confirm with park ranger times/dates. We will contact you after receiving the request.
  4. Prepare for your classroom visit or field trip by downloading pre-visit activities.  
All programs are aligned with state and NGSS curriculum standards. For more information email seki_ritc@nps.gov

Contact Information

Email us about this lesson plan

Last updated: January 12, 2023