Ecology Birdhouse Makerspace Project

4th Grade Science - Ecology / Habitats - Makerspaces 

Learning Targets:

1. I can explain how changes in environment (fire, pollution, floods), habitat, and seasons affect living things and their environments and sometimes lead to extinction.
2. I can identify characteristics that plants and animals need to survive in different environments.

Scenario - A local construction company has purchased 100 acres of wooded land just outside of West Grove. This land will be developed into a housing development with plans for 100 homes. Due to the loss of habitat local bird species will be forced to relocate. Local ecologists are hoping you can help them by designing birdhouses and/or bird feeders to help the local bird populations.

Your Task:

1. Research birds that live in the West Grove area. If possible, spend some time on the nature trail to survey what birds you see.
2. Working in groups of 3-4 design a birdhouse using materials available in the makerspace or at home. These materials must be natural and not cause harm to the environment. (no small plastic pieces that could be swallowed by an animal.)

   
   

   

   
   

1. Your design should be completed on graph paper with measurements listed.
2. The design should be focused on a specific bird species, making sure the size and features benefit that species needs.
3. Your design needs to be approved by your teacher prior to construction.

Research

• Use this link to access the Audubon Society’s site for birds in the Mid-Atlantic Region.
• Select a bird, and look at the map for that species. If the bird is in Pennsylvania for “All Seasons - Common” then you can pick this bird! (example on the right)
• For birdhouse sizes view this table

• If your bird is not listed, compare to a similar species or bird family member

• Complete the Bird Research page and submit it to your teacher.

Design

• Use graph paper to sketch your design with your group.
• Use a ruler to keep your lines straight and neat.
• Label the parts of the design and dimensions (length of the sides!)
• Be sure to use your research when designing your birdhouse. If a bird needs a 3 inch opening don’t design for a 2 inch opening!

Build

• Using supplies in the makerspace or from home, build your design with your group.
• If you need to cut parts, make sure you create a “cut list” so those parts can be prepared for your ahead of time. ****
• Materials should be natural and cannot include anything that will hurt the birds.

Montagna, 2018