CU 6.07Parts of a Bird
The child watches real birds, names the external parts of a bird on the bird puzzle, and learns that birds are the only animals with feathers.
Presentation
Search videos (opens YouTube in a new tab)- 1
Watch birds outside the window together. Point out the beak, the wings, and the tail.
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Show the feather. Look at it with the magnifying glass and stroke it gently from the base toward the tip.
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Bring the bird puzzle. Lift out and name the head, the beak, the wing, and the tail.
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Name the body, legs, feet, and claws.
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Give a three-period lesson on three parts at a time.
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Invite the child to work the puzzle.
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On later days, match the three-part cards and check with the control cards.
What catches the child’s eye
- Stroking a feather and watching it split apart, then smooth back together
- A real bird outside the window using its beak and wings
Extensions, easiest to hardest
- Compare beaks in photographs: hooked for tearing, long and thin for probing, short and thick for cracking seeds
- Compare feet: a duck's webbed feet, a robin's perching feet, an owl's talons
- Learn about the California gull, Utah's state bird
- Trace, color, and label a bird booklet
Control of error
Each puzzle piece fits only in its own space; control cards show each part with its label.
Ready to move on when the child…
- Names at least six parts of a bird
- Works the bird puzzle without help
- Says that only birds have feathers
Guide note
Use purchased feathers; wild bird feathers are protected by law and can carry germs. If you hang a feeder, use plain birdseed and place it where children can watch from inside. Wash hands after handling feathers.