MT. VERNON SCHOOL BIRD PROGRAM
"Learn Birds are Cool in School"
Since 2012, BRSS members have conducted an in-school bird program in two elementary schools in Mt. Vernon: the Columbus School and the Edward Williams School. We work with second grade classes. We make 5 monthly visits to the classroom from January to May. Each session a special theme, such as, "What makes a bird a bird?"
Our goal is the hope the children will be more aware of birds in their surroundings, and when they grow up, they'll be more likely to want to conserve and protect the natural world.
At this time we are unable to expand this program to other schools. We are happy to share our lesson plans if another organization wishes to replicate our efforts.
Session 1: What makes a bird a bird? Feathers!
How many 2nd graders does it take to have the wing span of a Bald Eagle?
Session 2: Beaks
We use household tools to teach how different beaks determine the food birds eat.
Session 3: Live Bird program presented by the Greenburgh Nature Center
A bird in the hand - a priceless teaching tool!
Session 4: The nesting cycle
Children use tweezers as their "beaks" to build a nest.
Session 5: Outdoor bird walk
Time to meet the birds in the neighborhood.