BATTLE OF THE BEAKS

In Evolution and Inheritance, Y6 have been learning about ‘Adaptation‘ amongst other topics.

ADAPTATION OF ANIMALS

Did you know…

camels can close their nostrils to keep out sand?
camels have long legs to keep away from the hot sand?
for polar bears, each hair is hollow to provide extra insulation?
penguins produce oil to keep feathers waterproof?
the golden eagle has large eyes to spot prey from great distances?
ostriches have large feathers to provide extra shade for the eggs?

ADAPTATION OF PLANTS

Did you know…

the spines on cacti reduce its surface area which reduces the amount of water lost through evaporation?
the mustard flower survives in the harsh conditions in the Arctic due to its minuscule size? This enables it to grow in the cracks of rocks which protects it from the harsh conditions

BATTLE OF THE BEAKS

At 22 years of age, Darwin made the most fascinating journey to the Galapagos Islands, which took 5 years! It was in the Galapagos Islands that he studied different animals and started to come up with his great theory: the theory of evolution. It was the different types of finches (and nightingales) that really got him thinking.

Y6 proceeded to carry out an investigation – Which beak type is the best for food retrieval? (dependent on available food choice). Food types available were: macaroni, paper clips, sweets, marbles, tooth picks, rubber-bands and dried beans. Beak types: pegs, tweezers, spoons and small scissors. Which beak type do you think is the best and which type of food will be the most popular? Y6 had great fun testing these beak types out.