Arctic Animals
A project to learn how animals stay warm in the arctic!
Science Activity for Pre-K-2nd Grade
An activity to teach younger aged children how animals who live in the arctic cold stay warm. Children will better understand that these animals have extra fat on their bodies which keeps them warm in temperatures below 0 degrees even!
Introduction
- What are the different types of arctic animals?
- What do they have in common?
- How would you dress if you were to visit these animals in the arctic?
Materials
- Large bucket/bowl filled with ice and cold water
- Box of latex gloves
- Plastic wrap
- Crisco shortening
Procedure
1. First have children place their bare hands in the bowl of large icy water and feel how cold it is to their hands. 2. Dry children's hand and put on latex glove, encourage children to dig a huge fistful of crisco shortening with their gloved hand. Help children cover entire closed fist with crisco making a huge ball. 3. Cover child's crisco covered fist with plastic wrap to keep crisco together and not fall off in the icy water. 4. Now have children dip crisco covered fist into the icy water bowl. Hand should stay warm and icy water should not be felt! 5. Once finished simply slip off wrapped glove and toss in trash for easy cleanup. :)
What is "blubber"?
Conclude this science lesson activity with a discussion on what blubber or fat is that arctic animals have and how it works. Relate the crisco used in the activity to blubber. Students should have an understanding of how blubber underneath arctic animals skin keeps them warm in freezing temperatures. Ask if students have any questions or comments to share!