Curated OER
Show Some Backbone and Teach Invertebrates
Fifth graders identify two similarities and two differences between two phyla, assign fictitious invertebrate to its phylum and explain why it belongs in that grouping, and construct member of given phylum and explain why it should be...
CK-12 Foundation
Ck 12: Episd: Animal Characteristics
[Free Registration/Login may be required to access all resource tools.] Students will be able to identify and classify organisms that are animals based on recognition of traits presented.
Better Lesson
Better Lesson: Why Are Some Animal Groups So Successful?
Using squirrels as an example, students will understand that some animal groups' inherited traits enable them to adapt and spread into many environments. Included in this lesson are videos showing the lesson in action, discussion...
CPALMS
Florida State University Cpalms: Florida Students: Amazing Animal Adaptations
Explore various characteristics and adaptations that help organisms survive in different environments.
Utah STEM Foundation
Utah Stem Action Center: Inherited Traits
Ever wondered why you might look like your parents? Or an animal cub my look like its mom? Learn about inherited traits with this quick and easy lesson plan.
Regents of the University of Michigan
Animal Diversity Web: Order Primates
Part of a larger site on the animal kingdom, this page provides a detailed overview of primates. Click on the various links throughout the page for more descriptions and explanatory pictures.
Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory
Dna From the Beginning: Classical Genetics
This article from DNA from the beginning is loaded with goodies about genetics and DNA. Starting with Mendel all the way through the concept of DNA, you will see how life is given certain characteristics. Some animations and audio clips...
Discovery Education
Discovery Education: What's a Mammal?
A comprehensive lesson plan that reviews the characteristics of mammals. Contains a number of interesting links, suggested readings, and a three-point evaluation rubric.
Chicago Zoological Society
Chicago Zoological Society: Zoo Explorer: Cotton Top Tamarin
One page profile of the cotton-top tamarin that provides quick facts, a photo, and details on the appearance, habitat, conservation, breeding habits, social traits, and other unique characteristics of this endangered animal.