Crab Hole Observation
Changing Environments
25 minutes
Small groups with adult supervision
Outdoor
Learning Objective
Observe animal-made environmental changes through field study
Materials Needed
- Magnifying glasses
- Clipboards with paper
- Crayons
- Measuring tape or rulers
- Camera
- First aid kit
Preparation
- 1Locate safe area with visible crab holes (beach, muddy area)
- 2Ensure adult supervision for each small group
- 3Prepare observation sheets
- 4Check safety of area
Step-by-Step Instructions
- 1Visit safe area with visible crab holes
- 2Children observe and draw what they see
- 3Discuss: 'How did these holes get here? What changes did the crabs make?'
- 4Measure hole sizes if possible
- 5Look for other signs of animal changes (bird nests, ant hills)
- 6Record observations with drawings and simple words
Assessment
- Can the child observe and record animal-made changes?
- Does the child understand that animals can change their environment?
- Can the child describe what they observed?
Extensions
- Create a clay model of a crab burrow
- Research what crabs do in their holes
- Look for other animal-made changes around school
- Discuss how animal changes can be helpful or harmful
Teaching Tips
- Emphasize observation, not disturbing the animals
- Keep children safe around holes and water
- Encourage detailed observation
- Connect to children's experiences with crabs