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Recently, we conducted a comparative study of the development of human and chick/duck embryos. The 21 and 28 day in-classroom incubation periods of chick and duck eggs, and the subsequent hatching and growth of our feathered friends, have provided the vehicle for this study. First, however, we compared different types of reproduction, from the simple splitting into two of protozoa, to the union of sperm and egg in higher animals. Then, an examination of the stages in embryonic growth revealed how cells differentiate and group themselves into specialized structures, eventually becoming part of the organs and tissues of an independent living being like its parents. We also discussed the difference between oviparous animals (where embryonic growth occurs outside the body of the female, such as in a chick egg) and viviparous (where the developing embryo is carried within the body of the female until birth). Extensions of this study included a comparative look at the gestation periods of various mammals and a detailed examination of the stages of human embryonic/fetal development. We have also been studying Mendel's theory of Genetics, which has included discussions about phenotypes and genotypes, dominant vs recessive traits, chromosomes and DNA.
The photos below chronicle the excitement when the first of our baby chicks and ducks hatched out. One of the baby ducks had a hard time emerging from its shell as the amnion sac was dry. We performed an emergency C-Section but we're sorry to say the duck didn't make it. This occasioned a discussion about "Mother Nature" and the reality that many newborn animals in the wild do not survive the harsh conditions of birth.
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Waiting ... watching |
Nervous parents await arrival of their firstborn |
Proud Papas |
Proud Mamas |
Hey! Would somebody let us out of here?!? |
Planning to fly the coop/ incubator |
Ahhh! They're so cute -- the ducklings, that is! |
Our incubator was chock full of chicks! |
We've got you covered! No breakouts here! |
Our little yellow fluff-balls! |
Jail-break! |
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Montroyal Elementary 5310 Sonora Drive
North Vancouver, B.C.
V7R 3V8
Phone: 604.903.3650
Fax: 604.903.3651
Attendance: 604.903.3711
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