Humane Society Presentation

Yesterday we had our presentation from the Calgary Humane Society. We learned all about reptiles and amphibians and what they need to have a healthy life. We learned that some of the big differences between these animals are that amphibians have skin, need to stay moist and have no claws or nails. Reptiles are covered in scales, usually stay more on land then in water and have claws or nails. We learned that these animals are vertebrates because they have spines. They are also cold-blooded which means they cannot regulate their body heat and require a heat source to warm them. We were shown different reptiles and amphibians that live in Alberta. These included frogs and toads, one turtle, snakes, salamanders and lizards. We talked about how when these animals are brought into captivity it is very important ensure you know what they need to stay healthy and survive. Unfortunately, exotic animals like reptiles and amphibians are the most likely to die from mistreatment. Some of the things you need to consider when an animal is in captivity includes: how much space it requires to live, what it needs in a habitat, the food it eats and the food source, if there are items that provide mental stimulation, fresh water and overall care. Ms. Binks is hoping we keep these things in mind when we visit the zoo on our field trip. During the presentation we met a gecko named Gerty. Gerty was adopted by the Humane Society education programs. She was very small and kept trying to jump out of the hands of the presenter. We all we able to pet Gerty with the back of our pinky finger. Some of us commented on how small and soft she was.

We continued to work on our animal research projects. Ms. Binks was hoping that today would be the last day to work on them, however many students still require more time. We are hoping that we can start presenting by Wednesday. Some students brought home their projects to add information over the weekend. If you are one of these people....please make sure you bring it back to school!!

We continued our work around decimals. We learned about decimals to the hundredths as well as equivalent decimals. We practiced the skills of converting fractions to decimals and determining if two decimals were equivalent by comparing values in the tenths and hundredths spots. Next week we will add and subtract numbers to the hundredths.

Reminders:
- Next week all library books need to be returned. Since we miss our regularly scheduled library time, please try and bring back your books on Monday
- Zoo field trip is Tuesday. Please do a sunshine dance over the weekend to scare the rain away. Some students are still missing forms. Permission forms need to be returned by Monday.
- Early dismissal on Friday June 16
- Volunteer tea on June 16