Reptiles: a science unit exploring reptile adaptations, traits, & biodiversity

Description

Why Choose Wild Earth Lab?

Drawing on my environmental science background, I create accurate, engaging resources that make teaching easier. Original, thoughtfully designed visuals and hands-on activities help bring the real experience of being a scientist into your classroom.

Age Range

This unit is designed to be adaptable for a range of ages, with activities and materials that can be adjusted to meet different learners’ needs. It is suitable for learners from late elementary school and up and works well with mixed-age groups.

What’s Included?

(70 PDF pages total)

• PART 1: INTRO & REPTILE TRAITS:
  • • Introductory reading
    • Reptiles poster
    • Reptile vocab classroom activity & worksheet
    • Reptile traits handout
    • “Can it be a reptile if…” handout
    • Reading comprehension: T/F questions & reflection questions
    • Types of reptiles handout
    • Reptiles vs not reptiles sorting activity
    • Reptile vs amphibian Venn diagram activity
• PART 2: ECTOTHERMS & ENDOTHERMS (i.e., cold- and warm-blooded):
  • • Handout
    • Ectotherm vs endotherm sorting activity
    • Body temperature graphing activity & questions
• PART 3: REPTILE LIFE CYCLES
  • • Reptile babies reading
    • Crocodile life cycle diagram
    • Boa life cycle diagram
    • Blank diagrams and cut-out picture/word tiles for life cycle practice
• PART 4: CAMOUFLAGE & WARNING COLORATION:
  • • Reading about types of camouflage
    • Coloring activity
    • Camouflage lab activity:
      • • Instructor guide (w/ suggested modifications for different age groups)
        • Student lab handout
        • Reflection questions
• PART 5: SCALES & SCUTES:
  • • Scutes vs scales handout
    • Scales & scutes art project directions
    • Scales & scutes art project printable materials
• PART 6: REPTILE DIVERSITY:
  • • Three-part flashcards of different reptiles (snakes, turtles, lizards, crocodilians, and more!)
    • Informational cards about the main types of reptiles
    • Directions for flashcard sorting activities (e.g., compare/contrast)
    • Word search
    • Reptile research project worksheet
• Teacher materials: includes answer key and directions
• Access to additional online materials: background information and more ways to expand on this topic.

Bundle & Save

Studying all 5 vertebrate groups? The reptile unit is also included in my Vertebrates Bundle

Good to Know

• Single-classroom use: Materials are for personal and single-classroom use only and may not be shared or distributed. Contact me about multiple licenses for schools or organizations.
• Digital product: This is an instant PDF download, designed for printing on standard 8.5 × 11-inch paper. Due to the nature of digital products, purchases are non-refundable.
• Adult supervision: Activities should be completed with appropriate adult supervision.
• Terms & Conditions: See the full terms & conditions.