This is our catalog of courses. We will occasionally adjust the course listing to reflect the addition of new courses and the retirement of others.
The sparrows of the air, the penguins of the sea, the ostriches of the arid plains of Africa, and many dinosaurs all have something in common: Feathers! Diversity is the word when it comes to our avian friends. Join this course as we admire colorful macaws, ravenous raptors, hovering hummingbirds, and the rest of the wonderous world of birds.
Total classes: 13
Prerequisite: None
Suggested grade level: 6th to 8th
Suggested credit: One full semester Science, Ornithology, or Life Science
Description
Study of Bird species, biology, and behavior. Birds are everywhere and come in such variety. Grab your binoculars and become a birdwatcher!
Outline
Class 1: Introduction to ornithology
Class 2: Flight adaptations and Family Anatidae
Class 3: Bird feet and ducks
Class 4: Beaks and bills, Family Phasianidae
Class 5: Eggs; Loons and Grebes
Class 6: Feathers and Seabirds
Class 7: Color, camouflage, and more Seabirds
Class 8: Flight in action and Wading birds
Class 9: Development; Vultures and hawks
Class 10: Nests; Owls
Class 11: Behavior, Pigeons and more
Class 12: Some odd species from around the world
Class 13: Passerines
Materials and Homework
Course Materials:
Peterson’s Guide to the Birds:
Eastern and Central: ISBN-13: 978-0547152462 https://amzn.to/3sXT4W0
OR
Western: ISBN-13: 978-0547152707 https://amzn.to/3eiLm4P
Homework: Automated weekly quizzes for immediate feedback, bird watching/photography, and use of the field guide. Expect to spend at least one to two hours per week outside of the classroom on homework.
