Overview

What makes a shark a shark? What adaptations help them survive in their habitats? Students explore shark anatomy by becoming “experts” on shark adaptations and physical characteristics. They take part in a debate justifying the importance of their adaptation or characteristic and then do research to see how specific sharks compare.

  • Focus Question: What are internal and external structures that help a shark survive?

  • Grades: 3-5

  • Location: Indoors

  • Duration: 30 minutes (minimum)

Next Generation Science Standards

NGSS

  • Science and Engineering Practices

    Constructing explanations and designing solutions

  • Crosscutting Concepts

    Structure and function

  • Disciplinary Core Ideas

    LS1.A Structure and Function