Young Scientists Program
A Middle School Program

What:   An extensive standards-based program that introduces students to the field of ethology (the study of animal behavior) and exhibit design through inquiry-based learning. Program contains multiple components: teacher training, three in-class lessons with live animals, two Denver Zoo visits, supporting curriculum and materials, and presentation of student work.

Who:    Ideal for 30 students or more in grades 5-8

Where: At your school AND at the Denver Zoo

When: Dates are available during the school year. Program consists of 3 in-class lessons at your school and 2 zoo visits.

 Times: Flexible

Cost:    30-59 students:             $45.00/student
            60-140 students:           $40.00/student

           Scholarships are available through Denver Zoo's Red Apple Fund.

How:    Contact Program Coordinator at 720-337-1436 or alamfers@denverzoo.org

The program gives students the opportunity to implement what they learn with a hands-on, research-based real-life application. Through this program, students will:

• Be visited by a Denver Zoo educator three times to learn about ethology, the process of scientific inquiry, data collection methodologies, and exhibit design.
• Use a Denver Zoo traveling library to research their selected study species.
• Visit the Denver Zoo two times to develop hypotheses, collect data, and tour the zoo.
• Create a final project that includes a poster and/or report detailing their science process as well as a 3-D model zoo enclosure.

This program aligns with the Colorado Life Science Standards, Colorado Common Core Content Standards, and National Framework for K-12 Science Education.