At Shawmut Hills Academy, the second-grade class embarked on an exciting journey into the world of birds, thanks to the “For the Love of Birds” project funded by the Teacher Innovation Fund. This grant enabled GRPS Teacher Stacy VanderMolen to purchase a bird feeder with a built-in camera and binoculars, allowing students to observe birds up close and learn about their unique features and adaptations.
Bringing Birds Closer
“My students loved learning about birds,’” said Ms. VanderMolen. “Our new feeder made the project so much better. Looking at the birds up-close connected them more to the project. They wrote amazing reports about their bird and even got to publish a class book.”
Classroom Favorites and Unexpected Guests
The new bird feeder with its built-in camera became a classroom favorite. Students eagerly watched videos of Blue Jays, Cardinals, Sparrows, Orioles, and Chickadees visiting the feeder. They studied the birds’ behaviors, appearances, and diets, gaining a deeper understanding of these fascinating creatures. The excitement didn’t stop at birds; the feeder also attracted chipmunks, mice, moths, and butterflies, adding to the students’ learning experience.
Memorable Moments
One of the most memorable moments was witnessing a mother bird feeding her baby. This up-close observation allowed students to see firsthand the nurturing behaviors of birds they had researched.
Creative Expressions
In addition to observing birds, the students expressed their creativity by painting birdhouses and creating bird-themed canvases as part of their reports. This artistic endeavor helped them connect more deeply with the subject matter and showcase their newfound knowledge.
A Lasting Impact
The “For the Love of Birds” project not only enriched the students’ understanding of birds but also sparked a lifelong interest in nature and wildlife. It was a truly “cool” experience that left a lasting impression on the young bird enthusiasts at Shawmut Hills Academy.
