About
this Daily Classroom Special:
Science to Go provides easy yet meaningful
science activities for grades k-8. Science to Go was written
by Barbara Smith, Magnet Coordinator at Harvard Elementary, Houston
(TX) and former Teachers Network web mentor.
Discriminating Palates - Pet Food
Preferences
Objectives
- Making observations and recording data.
- Taking measurements using standards.
Activity
- Examine mixed food for classroom pet (birdseed, gerbil mix, etc.).
- Sort food and determine what percentage of the whole each part
of the mix represents.
Compare this information to the labeling on the package. Try to determine
the name of each
component.
- Measure equal amounts (by weight or volume) of food into separate
containers.
- Make a hypothesis as to which food the pet will prefer, and give
a reason for
your guess. Give food to pet.
- At set intervals (depends on feeding habits of your pet), measure
all foods
and calculate amounts eaten. Keep a log of observations.
- Repeat experiment at least twice more.
- Using data collected, create a graph showing food preference.
- Discuss reason for having a mixture of foodstuffs, and relate to
the
recommended daily servings for humans' nutrition.
Web site Picks for Science
Adding a Pet to the Family: When your child asks "Mommy, can I have a
puppy?"
Parent advice, recommended book lists, responsibilities, allergies.
AVMA Care for
Pets Home Page. American Veterinary Medical Association
Advice on animal health issues, pet loss, and buying a pet. Animal safety,
and
all about veterinarians. Kid's Korner has activities, games, and pet advice. | 
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