An interactive animal wax museum popped up at South Park Elementary Center on Tuesday, February 11. Third grade students hosted the museum as a culminating, cross-curricular investigation of animals around the world.
In science class, students investigated topics including ecosystems, habitats, food chains, animal survival adaptations, animal classifications, life cycles, and inherited versus learned traits. While exploring those concepts in science class, students spent time in their language arts classes researching each aspect for their chosen animals. In social studies, students used their map skills and knowledge to pinpoint locations on the globe where their animals live. Students also explored the climates specific to their animals’ ecosystems.
The students’ living exhibits provided detailed information from their research and investigations. They used their Chromebooks as digital displays to present a more in-depth look at the research explorations. There was also a display of 3D-printed models of various animals. As museum-goers pressed the button at each display, the student animals sprung to life, providing a detailed oral explanation about the animals. The students even dressed the part!