Education for, in and about the Frontenac Arch Biosphere

 

PROGRAM OUTLINE (2 HOURS)
This program focuses on the life cycle of the frog. Freddy Frog introduces the concept in a short puppet play and the children see plastic models of tadpoles in the various stages of metamorphosis . This is followed by role playing the stages of the life cycle and then a trip to the pond to collect and observe tadpoles in different stages, bull frogs and leopard frogs. Emphasis is placed on proper care and handling of the living creatures and respect for all living things.

INTRODUCTION-

Puppet Play- Freddy Frog uses a picture parade and plastic models to discuss the special adaptations of frogs and the stages of metamorphosis. Emphasis is placed on the development from a tadpole breathing with gills and eating plants to the adult frog which breathes air with lungs and is an insect eater. The sequence of development of legs, lungs, and the changes in eyes and mouth are discussed. Freddy also emphasizes the care and proper handling of tadpoles and frogs which will be caught in the pond.

Role Playing- As the instructor reads a rhyming script, children take the roles of eggs, tadpoles, and adult frogs. The children are guided through appropriate actions to portray the life cycle of a frog.

Spring Serenade-
The children listen to a tape of frog calls. The different calls of a bull frog, a spring peeper, and a wood frog are modeled and the children try them.

The Great Frog Hunt-
At the pond, the children use nets to catch tadpoles and frogs. Tadpoles will be observed in various stages of development. Bull frogs and leopard frogs will be compared.

Sharing-
The class will share special finds and observe the difference in the mouth and eyes of tadpoles and adult frogs.