Have you ever heard of an “Axolphin” or a “Hebra”? These are just two of the many imaginative creatures created by Gayton’s Third Grade students. What started as a project-based learning unit on habitats quickly transformed into an opportunity for students to become creative thinkers and effective communicators.

Students built three-dimensional habitat models in their classrooms and researched animal adaptations during Library class. They then used this knowledge to invent entirely new animals with unique adaptations. In Art class, students learned the basics of graphic design and how to use generative AI to create distinctive animal trading cards. These cards were printed, and students exchanged them during Trading Day. This final event allowed students to interact and communicate with their peers, aiming to build a diverse collection of animals and habitats.