Lesson Idea | Bird Feeder Fun

Students will create an all natural bird feeder to hang near the school to feed birds during the various seasons.

Grade Level: K-2nd
Length of Time: 10-15 Minutes

Objectives & Outcomes

Learners will understand what foods are appropriate for birds and how to create a simple feeder.

Materials Needed

• pine cones
• peanut butter
• bird seed
• paper plates
• ribbon or pipe cleaners

Procedure

Opening to Lesson

Ask students if they have ever seen or if they have a birdfeeder in their yard. Ask if they know what type of foods that birds can safely eat. Explain that they will each be making a birdfeeder to offer birds a snack. Also explain that they may be able to see different types of birds as they come to feed.

Body of Lesson

• Begin by tying a ribbon or pipe cleaner to the top of a pine cone for hanging. Remind students to keep as much peanut butter as possible off of this ribbon/pipe cleaner.
• Have students use their fingers or plastic knives or spoons to smear peanut butter all over a pine cone. Place birdseed on a paper plate and allow students to roll the peanut butter covered pine cone in the birdseed. The seeds should stick on the peanut butter well.
• Allow students to choose spots outdoors to hang their bird feeders or take them home to monitor what types of birds visit. If being sent home place pine cones in a plastic baggie that seals for transport.

Closing

Encourage students to monitor the birdfeeders each day and keep track of the birds that visit. Write the type of birds each day.

Assessment & Evaluation

Assessment will be based on participation and discussion of how animals are being helped.

Modification & Differentiation

Some students may need help tying the ribbon onto the pine cone.