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Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

Animal Adaptations

Picture of a coronated tree frog
Image credit: Smithsonian

Live Video School Program for Grades K-2

During this staff-led program students will practice science skills by making observations of animal specimens from our virtual collections to discover how different adaptations help animals survive in their natural environment. Students will explore the different kinds of structural adaptations of animals who live on land, water, and in the air.

Formats

Designed to accommodate classes, grades, or groups with 15-1,000 students. Students will not be visible to the museum educator or other students, but they will be able to submit questions in writing through the Q&A, and interact through polls.

Designed to accommodate classes of 15 - 35 students. Students will be visible to the museum educator and their classmates, and will have the ability to raise their hand to ask and answer questions. In order to participate in this format, those registering will need to provide copies of parental permissions to participate in onscreen programs. If you would like to register for more than 35 students you will need to book a second slot.

Designed to accommodate individual students or small groups with less than 15 students. Students will not be visible to the museum educator or other students, but they will be able submit questions in writing through the Q&A, and interact through polls. Homeschool Days available the first Monday of the month: October 5, November 2, and December 7.  

Register

  • Registered programs, 10:15 a.m. and 11:45 a.m. ET from October 5 to December 18. DCPS teachers please contact us if classes need to be scheduled at alternate times. 
  • Registration is now open. Register for Digital School Programs

Supplemental Videos

More videos

Kids, you are just like scientists!

Upcoming Science How Webinars

Bring a Smithsonian scientist into your home and classroom with Smithsonian Science How a series of live video webinars that connect Smithsonian science experts with students. Check back soon for new webinars to connect your students with the core content of the Animal Adaptations school programs. The webinars will provide your students with an opportunity to extend their learning in the content area.

Extension Resources

Virtually explore the Kenneth E. Behring Family Hall of Mammals. Teacher and student materials coming later this fall!

 

Visit the Animals A-Z page to learn about the special adaptations of the residents at the Zoo!

Make observations of animal adaptations your own from home!