Science Sensation

7th Grade Science Sensation

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Three days in October students from all over Gibson County show up for their day of fun and learning at the 7th Grade Science Sensation event at the fairgrounds. Gibson Master Gardeners play a game called "Oh, Deer!" with the students to help them understand the life cycle of these animals in the wild.

If the weather is not good, we play the game inside. Sometimes game is played outside. Either ways the kids enjoy it and learn about the trials and tribulations of being a deer in the woods.

Oh Deer!

Oh Deer! GCMG's Program at the annual Science Sensation

Objectives: Students will (1)identify and describe food, water, and shelter as three essential components of habitat; (2) describe factors that influence carrying capacity, (3) define"limiting factors" and give examples, and (4) recognize that some fluctuations in wildlife populations are natural as ecological systems undergo constant change.

Method: Students 5-8 level portray deer and habitat components in a physical activity.30-45 minute sessions, indoors or out, large area for running needed.

Key terms: habitat, limiting factors, predator, prey, population, balance of nature, ecosystem. A chart if made to show the number of deer at the beginning of the activity and at the end of each round represents the number of deer in a series of years. They will learn that the population will tend to peak, decline, and rebuild: peak, decline, and rebuild--as long as there is good habitat and sufficient number of animals to reproduce successfully.