Austin Road second graders enjoyed a visit from BOCES environmental educator Patrick Harmon who challenged the students to think about what birds, bats, butterflies and blooms all have in common. The curious students solved this mystery by diving into the fascinating world of pollination.
Through a dynamic hands-on lesson, the students explored how plants and pollinators work together to meet their needs. Using mixed media, real animal artifacts and an interactive activity, Harmon helped the second graders gather evidence to support the idea that animals play a vital role in helping plants reproduce. In one example, the second graders were amazed at how the “flying fox” bat uses its long tongue to drink nectar from flowers and then pollen stuck to the bat’s face is transferred from one flower to another.
Students were challenged to imagine and draw their own animal pollinators. The engaging experience not only brought science to life but also helped students develop critical thinking skills as they connect classroom learning with the natural world.
