Explore the Outback: Missions in the Australian Desert 4a4q3w

6f4l5v

What Is This Game? 1y5r47

Have kids head out to the Australian outback to explore the desert. In this photo safari, kids earn points by taking pictures of specific plants and animals. The more points they get, the more digital stickers they can buy for their awesome collection!

Conversation Starters v6l1e

Ask: 6k2e4z
  • What's the most awesome adaptation to desert life you saw in the outback?
  • Which mission from Plum was your favorite? Why?
  • What missions would you include if you made a game like this for your own neighborhood?
  • How do the plants and animals in your neighborhood get the water they need?

Explore Some More 4a2v6i

Plant Scavenger Hunt 6q5o47

Take a walk in the schoolyard, through the neighborhood, or to a nearby park. Challenge kids to find a plant with: thick, tough leaves; soft, thin leaves; and leaves that look like needles. (Note: Kids might not understand that needles on conifers are leaves.) If allowed, collect a sample of each kind of leaf. Bring the leaves back to the classroom. Spread them out on paper towels and make some quick notes about how each one looks and feels. If you have a camera, take photographs of the leaves. Leave them to sit overnight and compare them the next morning. Do any of the leaves look different? How did they change? Be sure to troubleshoot any safety concerns (traffic, poison ivy, sharp objects, etc.) while you explore.

Curriculum Topic h362s

adaptation, habitats

Activity Type 4bs1u

indoor and outdoor

Standards 1c3s42

Next Generation Science Standards 6l3r37

Disciplinary Core Ideas 1p501c

Science and Engineering Practices d4i1n

Crosscutting Concepts 6h54