Giraffe Behaviour Study

In Giraffe Behaviour Study students work scientifically to collect real data on our herd of reticulated giraffes.

Working in groups at Giraffe Heights, students come face to face with our herd of giants to collect behavioural data using ethograms. They then use this data to create behaviour bar charts and to compare behaviours between different age groups in the herd. Group discussions allow students to explore how this data is used in a real context here at the zoo as well as to assist the conservation of a variety of species out in the wild.

Please note, this workshop will take place outdoors near one of our enclosures. Please ensure that students wear appropriate clothing and footwear.

Age: KS3 (11-14 years old)

Duration: 45min

Capacity: 35

Outdoor workshop

Giraffes at ZSL Whipsnade Zoo

Intended learning outcomes:

Students will be able to:

Collect, analyse and communicate a range of data gathered through fieldwork
Discuss the impact of human economic development on the landscape and on conservation of a species.
Use scientific language to explain their results
Describe how research can impact the conservation of animals in the wild

National Curriculum/Specification Links:

KS3 Biology	Working Scientifically	Scientific attitudes	pay attention to objectivity and concern for accuracy, precision, repeatability and reproducibility
		Experimental skills and investigations	ask questions and develop a line of enquiry based on observations of the real world, alongside prior knowledge and experience make predictions using scientific knowledge and understanding select, plan and carry out the most appropriate types of scientific enquiries to test predictions, including identifying independent, dependent and control variables, where appropriate apply sampling techniques
		Analysis and evaluation	present observations and data using appropriate methods, including tables and graphs interpret observations and data, including identifying patterns and using observations, measurements and data to draw conclusions evaluate data, showing awareness of potential sources of random and systematic error
	Interactions and interdependencies	Relationships in an ecosystem	how organisms affect, and are affected by, their environment, including the accumulation of toxic materials.
	Genetics and evolution	Inheritance, chromosomes, DNA and genes	changes in the environment may leave individuals within a species, and some entire species, less well adapted to compete successfully and reproduce, which in turn may lead to extinction