Classroom Activities: Fish

These classroom activities are designed to complement the Fish topic on BrainPOP Jr.

Class Fish

If possible, get a fish for a class pet. Have students research what the fish needs to survive and how to care for it. How much food should it get? Why should you change the water and how often should you do it? Look at helpful tips online about how to keep fish healthy. What precautions should you take when choosing items to add to your tank? Create a schedule to divide the caring responsibilities among students in your class.

Fin Adaptations

Have small groups or pairs research various fish together and pay special attention to the fins of different species. Students may want to draw pictures of the fish and write a description or create a slideshow using images from the Internet, then present their findings to the class. How are the fins of a goldfish different from the fins of a shark? Have students pay attention to fin shape, size, location on the body, and the number of fins. How might the fins of a bluefin tuna be suited to swimming quickly? Have students make inferences and predictions.

Endangered Fish

Have students research different endangered fish species and choose one as a subject for a presentation or poster. Students should describe the fish, its habitat, and explain why it is endangered. Have students also explain ways to help protect the fish and raise awareness. You may want to share the <a href=”http://www.brainpopjr.com/topics/extinctandendangeredspecies”Extinct and Endangered Species movie for inspiration and to build background knowledge.