RESOURCES FOR EDUCATORS

Discovery Den

TEACHER PACKETS

 

Woodland Park Zoo teacher packets contain background information, activity ideas, and resource information. Activities included in teacher packets were written to support Washington’s Essential Learning Requirements (EALRs) and Washington’s Environmental and Sustainability Education Standards. Most activities are designed for use with students in grades K-12 and can be adapted to suit your needs. The packets can be used to help you design a curriculum for use at the zoo or in your classroom. Original publication and revision dates are listed under the title of each packet.

Teacher packets are available in small downloadable sections. To access, click or tap on the link for the section you would like to download.

Please note: These resources contain relevant natural history information, however information related to Woodland Park Zoo may be outdated. The resources are archived here for your use, but are not regularly updated.

 



Amazing Arthropods


The group of animals classified as arthropods is the largest, most diverse group of animals in the world. It includes insects, spiders and lobsters. This packet will help you and your students explore these fascinating and vitally important animals.

Introduction
Background
References and Resources
Activities
Glossary
Conservation Links (2017)



Apes


This packet, designed for grades 6-9, focuses on apes and helps students to make connections between the physical, behavioral and environmental characteristics of apes. The packet also explores the urgent issue of ape conservation. Using an interdisciplinary approach, activities are woven throughout the packet, providing students with opportunities to build an understanding of apes’ adaptations and strategies for survival.

Introduction  
Objectives and Introduction to Apes  
Ape Environments  
Physical Characteristics  
Ape Behavior  
Ape Conservation 
Glossary and Resources
Conservation Links
 (2017)



Endangered Species


This packet is designed for grades 5-12, but includes background information and a few activities useful for grades K-4. You will find current information regarding endangered species in our state and country, and throughout the world.

Introduction
Background
Glossary and Resources
Activities
Conservation Links (2017)



Forest Explorers


This packet was designed to supplement Woodland Park Zoo’s second-grade forest ecology program, but is adaptable for most elementary grades. With sections on forests, habitats, niches and interdependence, and conservation, Forest Explorers compares Washington state’s temperate forests with tropical rain forests of Central and South America.

Introduction
Background
Glossary and Resources
Activities
Conservation Links (2017)



Living Northwest Trail


Life in the far north is hard. The ground is permanently frozen, the sun never shines during part of the winter, and never sets during part of the summer. How do animals and plants adapt to this environment? This packet will help you share the mysteries of Alaska with your students.

Introduction
Background
References
Glossary
Map
Activities
Conservation Links (2017)



Raptors


Birds of prey are magnificent animals that can be readily seen in both urban and rural areas. Since they are top predators, raptors provide an excellent avenue for studying a wide variety of biological concepts, such as predator-prey relationships, adaptations and the effects of human influence.

Introduction
Background
Activities
Glossary and Resources
Conservation Links (2017)



Reptiles & Amphibians


Cold-blooded animals have developed unique physical characteristics and life cycles for survival in a variety of habitats. This packet explores the human-posed threats faced by reptile and amphibian populations throughout the world. Specific examples are provided about species in Washington state that are threatened or endangered.

Introduction
Background
Glossary and Resources
Activities
Conservation Links (2017)



Tropical Asia


Plants, animals and people of tropical Asian forests are inextricably linked. This packet looks at interconnections that make life in the tropical rain forests of Asia possible. This packet helps students to learn about biodiversity and interdependence.

* Revised version coming soon



Tropical Rain Forest


This packet presents information on the forests of the world, with an emphasis on tropical rain forests. Activities and information focus on the different layers of the forest, and the species of plants and animals that are uniquely adapted to each layer.  Also provided are ideas on how you and your students can help conserve forests.

Introduction
Background
Glossary and Resources
Activities
Conservation Links (2017)



Washington Wildlife


Washington state contains some of the most diverse ecosystems in the nation. This packet takes a detailed look, through background information, activities and resources, at five different habitat regions: the steppe, montane, temperate forest, wetland and urban areas.

Introduction
Background
Glossary and Resources
Plant Lists
Animal Lists
Maps
Activities
Activities Grid
Conservation Links (2017)



Zoo/Wildlife Careers


Did you know that the zoo employs more than 250 people in careers from accounting to zookeeping? This packet helps teachers of all grades guide their students in explorations of zoo and other wildlife careers.

Find out more about zoo careers

Introduction
Background
Resources
Activities
FAQs
Conservation Links (2017)

Our Mission

Woodland Park Zoo saves wildlife and inspires everyone to make conservation a priority in their lives.

Land Acknowledgment

Woodland Park Zoo recognizes that these are the lands of the Tribal signatories of the Treaty of Point Elliott. We acknowledge their stewardship of this place continues to this day and that it is our responsibility to join them to restore the relationship with the living world around us.


5500 Phinney Ave. N., Seattle, WA 98103   |  206.548.2500  |   zooinfo@zoo.org


Association of Zoos & Aquariums
Seattle Parks & Recreation
Humane Certification