ACTIVITY

Bird Spotting – Part 1

Description: Students go outdoors to observe, record, and identify local birds using the free eBird app. Students take photos or videos where possible and explore the birds they encounter in their local environment.

Intention: Students develop digital and species-identification skills while building awareness of local bird diversity and habitats through direct observation.

This activity covers two Bricks.

Before:

  • Choose a nearby natural area where students can safely spread out and where birds are likely to be present. Visit the area beforehand to identify suitable observation spots and potential safety concerns.
  • Check whether students can use eBird on their devices and whether they have access to the necessary mobile data or Wi-Fi.
  • Inform students that they will be outdoors and should bring appropriate shoes and clothing.
  • For larger classes, consider arranging students in pairs or small groups and, if possible, invite an extra teacher or adult to help supervise.
1

Introduction

  • Explain the activity and what students should look for.
  • Very briefly demonstrate eBird.
  • Set expectations: stay quiet, respect wildlife, stay within boundaries.
2

Go outdoors with the class – spend time quietly observing and listening for birds in the local area.

3

Outdoors: bird spotting

  • Students spread out in pairs/small groups.
  • Observe and listen.
  • Take photos/videos where possible.
  • Record the birds they see/hear.
4

Identification

  • Use eBird to identify the birds.
  • Students make a short list of their species.
  • The method Pattern Grouping can be useful here.
5

Quick reflection
Ask:

  • What birds did you find?
  • Which was easiest/hardest to identify?
  • Did different groups find different birds?
  • Why might some birds be here while others aren’t?

Between classes: You can collect/compile the species the students found, so Class 2 starts with a manageable list rather than everyone having to research everything.

Didactic tips:

  • For safety, invite extra teachers or parents to join, especially when working with larger groups or in an unfamiliar outdoor area.
  • Organise students in pairs or small groups so they can help each other observe and identify birds.
  • Emphasise careful observation rather than the number of species found. Students do not need to identify every bird they encounter.
  • Encourage students to record what they hear as well as what they see. Bird calls can provide important clues for identification.
  • If students cannot identify a bird with certainty, encourage them to record their observations and return to the identification later rather than guessing.
  • Students can optionally continue this activity by giving presentations about what they have learned and seen. The Duet Presentation and Presentation Bazaar suit this activity.
GreenComp: 3.1 Investigation skills, 2.1 Systems thinking, 1.3 Promoting nature
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EngageInvestigate
THEME:
Nature & biodiversity
TIME: 45 minutes
AGE: 10-12 years, 13-15 years

SUBJECTS:

  • Nature sciences

TOOLS / MATERIALS:

  • E-Bird app
  • Phone
  • Tablet
  • Note pad + pen
  • DSLR camera (with zoom lens)
  • Binoculars

METHODS:

RESOURCES: