Out Doors in- Bringing living things into Life Science

Impact to My Classroom

# of Students Impacted: 475

Bringing living organisms such as tadpoles, ladybugs, butterflies, and fish into the classroom provided a powerful and engaging way for students to deepen their understanding of biology while positively impacting their behavior and fostering a sense of responsibility. These organisms offered students a tangible connection to the natural world, allowing them to explore and observe biological processes like metamorphosis, life cycles, and ecosystems in real-time. 

Through observing tadpoles transform into frogs, witnessing ladybug larvae hatch, and watching the development of butterflies, students gain a firsthand understanding of key biological concepts. This hands-on learning approach enhances their comprehension of complex topics such as life cycles, growth, and ecological interdependence. Students were able to see natural selection at work when one tadpole ate the rest of the tadpoles.  Additionally, caring for the fish tank and maintaining a healthy habitat for these creatures taught students about ecosystems, the importance of water quality, and the balance of life in aquatic environments.

Incorporating these organisms into the classroom has also led to noticeable improvements in student behavior. With the responsibility of caring for living creatures, students develop a greater sense of purpose and accountability. They take ownership of tasks such as feeding, cleaning, and observing the creatures’ progress, which fosters a more focused and respectful classroom atmosphere. This sense of responsibility also promotes cooperation, as students must work together in teams to care for the organisms, thus improving communication and collaboration skills.

Additionally, assigning student jobs related to the care of the organisms not only gives students an active role in the classroom but also provides them with valuable life skills. Whether it's monitoring the fish tank’s water quality, ensuring the habitat is conducive to butterfly larvae development, or keeping track of the progress of tadpoles, each student job allows for the development of organizational skills, attention to detail, and a sense of accomplishment. These responsibilities empowered students, instilling a sense of pride in their contributions to the classroom community and fostering a positive classroom environment. Students were not thrilled about letting the ladybugs and butterflies go but they understood that these organisms belong outside to get their daily needs met.

Overall, the introduction of living organisms has significantly enhanced students’ understanding of biology while simultaneously improving behavior and creating opportunities for personal growth. Students gain a deeper appreciation for science, develop a stronger sense of empathy, and learn valuable life skills, making them more responsible, engaged, and motivated learners.