Backyard Birds Lap ~n~ Note created by Ami Brainerd

Since I have no way of knowing what birds are going to visit our feeder each day, I decided to make a set of templates that can be used with any bird.  I made these templates simple so that my son can do this project without much help from me as we work to move toward more independence and ownership of learning.

Here is how I envision this project~
1.  I will three hole punch a piece of cardstock for my son.
2.  When he spies a bird in our yard or at one of the feeders, he will draw a picture (or find a photo to cut/paste) of the bird; this will go on the page.
3.  He will choose 3-4 more templates to go with this bird.  It will require him to watch the bird closely (to hear it's song and to complete an observation book); it will also require some simple research skills as he looks up information about the bird in a spotter's guide or other source.
4.  The completed page will be placed in a notebook. 
5.  He will continue the process with another bird on another day.

Mom, you may want to consider creating your own Backyard Bird Lap ~n~ Note alongside your student.  It will encourage your student to see you excited about learning!   

Sample Lap ~N~ Note Lay-outs