Distance Learning

6th-8th Grade | Virtual Understanding the Shenandoah Salamander

Grade Level:
Middle School: Sixth Grade through Eighth Grade
Subject:
Science
State Standards:
Virginia science standards - 6.1, 6.9, LS.1, LS.6, LS.7, LS.8, LS.9, LS.11, ES.1, ES.11, ES. 12 

In this lesson, students will study the potential impact of threats on two salamander species found in Shenandoah National Park, the endangered Shenandoah salamander and the more common red-backed salamander. During the live virtual program with a ranger, students will learn more about the research being done, brainstorm what they can do to help these and other animals in the park, and determine if there is hope for the future of our threatened and engangered species even in the face of threats such as competition and climate change. This field trip is recommended for sixth through eighth grade and is 1 hour in length. Part of one class period or an evening of homework is expected for prep.

Objective(s)

Following the park experience and classroom activities, the students will be able to:

  1. define climate change and list examples of natural and human-influenced contributors to climate change;
  2. assess/predict the potential impact of climate change and species competition on the survival of the Shenandoah and red-backed salamanders;
  3. determine ways people can reduce contributions to climate change;

Standards

State science standards: 6.1, 6.9, LS.1, LS.6, LS.7, LS.8, LS.9, LS.11, ES.1, ES.11, ES. 12 

Materials

Download MS: Virtual Shenandoah Salamander: Climate Change Casualty or Survivor?

Tags: virtual field trip climate change salamander

Last updated: May 9, 2025