Students will be introduced to the adaptations and diversity of amphibians in Northern Minnesota by focusing on frogs and toads. While exploring one of Wolf Ridge’s ideal amphibian habitats, students will use all of their senses to observe our local frog and toad populations. Other activities will focus on conservation and research of amphibian populations in Minnesota and around the world.

Concepts

• All living things acquire physical and behavioral adaptations to be successful in their environment.
• Observation of direct and indirect evidence is a valuable skill and learning tool.
• Humans have a great ability to alter natural systems, and a responsibility to consider the effects of our actions.
• Awareness, knowledge and appreciation lead to an under­standing of our impact on the environment.
• Ongoing research yields important information on chang­ing trends such as populations.

Outcomes

Upon completion of the Frogs and Toads class students will be able to:

• Explain how amphibians are different from other animals.
• Define adaptations and give specific amphibian examples.
• Use visual and vocal field marks in combination with iden­tification tools to identify different frog and toad species.
• Understand one way amphibian population research is conducted.
• Identify factors contributing to declining amphibian populations.
• Recognize the importance of and various ways to protect declining amphibian populations.