Hands-on Science for All Learners - Grades: 6–8 Are your
students mad about science, or are you breaking all of the
beakers in your lab in search of a challenging activity? Until
recently, I was the latter, frustrated and looking for ways to
reintroduce some curriculum staples. We were beginning our unit
on habitats and ecosystems, which I’ve discovered is the least
popular topic amongst my students. After some exhaustive
searching, I turned to my close friend and colleague, Jeri Baer,
for advice. I knew that as a science guru, she would be able to
guide me in the right direction, and sure enough, Jeri reminded
me of a lab that we had co-taught years ago. The “Owl Pellet
Lab” had been widely successful and was just the spark I was
looking for. Read on for a great lab that will foster active
engagement and a renewed love for science. - Owl pellets (can be
purchased online at Mountain Home Biological) - Dissecting
needles/toothpicks & tweezers - Paper or heavy card stock - Foam
boards or plates - Bone identific