BioKids: Kids’ Inquiry of Diverse Species
Grades 4-8, with parental supervision
This website is part of a research project developed by the University of Michigan with resources and activities to improve learning science with a focus on biology and biodiversity. It’s designed for classroom use, but it’s a terrific resource for homeschoolers as well!
When you get to the site use the horizontal menu near the top of the screen to explore:
- Critter Catalog – Discover an array of vertebrates such as mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fish. Then check out the invertebrates that include mollusks, insects, arachnids, myriapods, and crustaceans. Information here includes pictures, specimens, sounds the critters make, and scientific classification.
- Field Guides – While there is a focus here on the wildlife habitat of Michigan, you’ll find terrific all-around information under “Tracks and Sign” that includes keys to animal tracks, marks left by animals chewing, biting, and rubbing, things animals build, eggs, and things animals leave behind.
- Resources – You’ll find a terrific archive of links to websites about animals and biodiversity. Don’t miss the “Multimedia Resources” in the “Links for Teachers” section that include links to sites with ideas for curricula.
