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: KS4 (14-16 years old)

Duration: 50min

Capacity: 35

Outdoor workshop

Khari the giraffe 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

Additional Resources:

Support your students' learning before, during and after thier visit with our Online Teaching Resources

Specification Links:

AQA GCSE Biology

4.7 Ecology	4.7.1 Adaptations, interdependence and competition	4.7.1.3 Biotic factors	Students should be able to explain how a change in a biotic factor might affect a given community given appropriate data or context.
	4.7.1 Adaptations, interdependence and competition	4.7.1.4 Adaptations	Students should be able to explain how organisms are adapted to live in their natural environment, given appropriate information.
	4.7.3 Biodiversity and the effect of human interaction on ecosystems	4.7.3.1 Biodiversity	The future of the human species on Earth relies on us maintaining a good level of biodiversity. Many human activities are reducing biodiversity and only recently have measures been taken to try to stop this reduction.
		4.7.3.6 Maintaining biodiversity	Scientists and concerned citizens have put in place programmes to reduce the negative effects of humans on ecosystems and biodiversity

OCR GCSE (9-1) Gateway Science Biology A

Topic B6: Global challenges

B6.1 Monitoring and maintaining the environment

B6.1b describe both positive and negative human interactions within ecosystems and explain their impact on biodiversity
B6.1c explain some of the benefits and challenges of maintaining local and global biodiversity

Edexcel GCSE (9-1) Biology

Topic 9 – Ecosystems and material cycles

9.10 Explain the benefits of maintaining local and global biodiversity, including the conservation of animal species and the impact of reforestation