Zoo Files: Cracking Animals' Secrets

Course Overview

Unleash your child's inner zoologist this June! Zoo Files: Cracking Animals' Secrets is a high-energy, immersive excursion designed by Smart Science Lab to take learning out of the classroom and into the wild. From the towering heights of giraffes to the stealthy prowl of big cats, your child will go beyond just "looking" at animals-they will decode the science of survival.

This isn't your typical zoo trip. This workshop transforms the zoo into a living laboratory where young learners explore animal behavior, biological adaptations, and environmental science. Through expert-guided observation and "mystery clue" investigations, children will learn how every stripe, long limb, and large ear serves a vital purpose in nature.

Course Content

Our curriculum focuses on five core "Animal Files" that challenge students to think like real-life scientists:

• The High-Reach Mystery: How giraffes and zebras use height and optical-illusion stripes to thrive.
• The Stealth Files: Identifying how big cats use "Shade + Color" to become invisible in plain sight.
• The Thermostat Secret: Investigating how reptiles use movement and the sun to control their internal temperature.
• The Arboreal Architect: Mapping how orangutans use their specialized anatomy for life in the canopy.
• The Cooling System: Understanding the physics of heat loss through an elephant's ears and the protective power of mud.

Zoo Workshop Schedule:

8am Registration of attendance in centre

8.30am Bus to Zoo

9.30am Start of Workshop Part I

11am Lunch Break

11.45am Start of Workshop Part II

2pm End of Workshop

2.30 - 3pm Board Bus to return back to centre

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this excursion, your child will be able to:

• Classify animals based on their habitats and physical traits.
• Identify specific biological adaptations (e.g., camouflage, heat regulation).
• Utilize critical thinking skills to solve "mystery animal clues" using fur samples and footprints.
• Develop a foundational respect for wildlife conservation and biodiversity.

Teaching Method

We believe in Active Inquiry. Our instructors use:

• Guided Field Observation: Real-time analysis of animal behaviour.
• Sensory Learning: Interactive games and "mystery clue" kits (fur, sounds, and tracks).
• Creative Role-Play: Encouraging kids to simulate animal movements to understand physical adaptations.
• Collaborative Reflection: Group sharing sessions to build confidence and communication skills.

Prerequisites:

4 - 9 years old. No prior scientific knowledge is required-just a curiosity for the natural world!

Required Materials .

• Comfortable clothing
• Covered shoes
• Cap / Hat
• Raincoat / Umbrella
• Water bottle
• Small backpack
• Notebook / sketchbook
• Pencil
• Packed snack / lunch
• Insect repellant
• Sunscreen

Important to Note

• Adult Supervision: To ensure a safe and supportive learning environment, children aged 4 to 6 years old must be accompanied by a paying adult (aged 21 and above).
• Accompanying Adult (for childl need to pay a $60, inclusive of tickets and transport.
• As lunch is not provided, we kindly ask that you pack a lunch for your child.