Discover Sloths!

You will

Phase 1

Classroom Activity (15 minutes)

1. Be introduced to sloth animals

2. Be engaged and compare and contrast habitats

3. Listen and read a story about a sloth, click here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lZX39Nc20Ys

The classroom activity is designed to build understanding of the topic. Teacher first presents vocabulary terms and a brief description about sloths.  The teacher will then lead the whole class in a discussion that compares and contrasts habitats of sloths with different animals. The video serves as a fun and inviting example of the lifestyle of a sloth. Students may take notes. 

Phase 2

Constructive Responses (15 minutes)

Students will gather in groups of 3 to 4. They will have group discussion on the video and class instruction. Then they will respond to three (3) constructed-response questions.

   1. Who is the main character of the story? 

    2. What is the main idea to the story?

    3. What are your thoughts about sloths?

Phase 3

Research (20 minutes)

Students individually will use computer technology to access online educational sources about sloths. They have the opportunity to choose from a list of links to review and research. Students can take notes on facts learned to help them create group presentations in Phase 4 of the lesson. 

    1. https://www.kidzone.ws/animal-facts/sloths/facts.htm
    2. http://www.sciencekids.co.nz/sciencefacts/animals/sloth.html
    3. https://kids.nationalgeographic.com/animals/mammals/sloth/

Phase 4

Group Presentations (60 minutes)

In groups of 3 to 4 create a 3 to 4 slide presentation side show using pictures, and text! Be creative! Have fun! Students can use Google Slides to create presentations. Each student is required to complete 1 slide. Student will be assigned roles to promote collaboration.  Materials needed: Computer, Google Slide software.

1. Text Captain: Student will review slides to make sure there are 4 or more factual details in text form on each slide of the presentation.

2. Picture Captain: Student will review slides to ensure there are 4 or more pictures related to sloths.

3. Content Captain: Student will review slides to ensure content is related to sloths and their associated habitats, food, etc. 

4. Question Captain: Writes any questions about the presentation and asks teacher for further clarification.