Resource Type: Lesson plan and supporting materials
Grades: 4 - 12+
Subjects: Biology, Ecology, Experiential Learning, Geography, Physical Geography
Recruit and support scientists, naturalists, and other expert volunteers to lead BioBlitz inventories that engage both students and community members in a fun, dynamic, participatory science learning and stewardship event.
Visit the National Geographic bioblitz resource page to learn more about designing a BioBlitz learning experience
"The UW Urban Canid Project aims to learn more about the life history and ecology of red fox and coyote populations in urban Madison, WI. We ask that Madison residents report sightings of red foxes and coyotes around town."
Learn more and contribute your observations on the UW Urban Canid Project iNaturalist page.
© UW Urban Canid Project
Examine one cubic foot of space and discover and report all the living things that are found within it. Compare the animal, plant, and fungus community of your biocube with those placed around the world.
There is a lot of life just outside our door that we never see - in the grass, under rocks, hidden bushes or in the water. Exploring this hidden life or biodiversity is a fantastic way to connect with the natural world while practicing scientific thinking and science skills. One way to do this is to use a Biocube, which allows one to look for the biodiversity in a cubic foot of space. In this activity, explorers build a Biocube out of household items, then use it to investigate nature in a small area just outside their home.
This activity is intended to be done by individuals or family groups while at home. It is modified from Biocubes - Exploring Biodiversity project that has been done by school and youth groups across the U.S. Please watch Biocubes: A World in One Cubic Foot to get started.
Visit the Smithsonian's Biocube at Home for instructions.
© David Liittschwager