The “Safer Stopover Sites for Migratory Birds” unit is part of the larger unit, Community-Connected Elementary Science & Engineering. In the “Safer Stopover Sites for Migratory Birds, ” 4th grade students explore core ideas of physical science, life science and engineering in the context of mitigating light and sound pollution from the highway in their local community. Over 11 class sessions, students integrate their understanding of the engineering design process and science ideas. Designed to meet fourth-grade standards, the unit involves investigating the role of light in helping humans and birds see, the nature of sound and how birds hear, and the impact of light and sound pollution on migratory birds. After these inquiry experiences, students construct, test, and iterate on designs to reduce the impact of light and sound pollution in areas near highways that serve as stopover sites for migratory birds.
