Endangered lodgers: Discover the world of building breeders

Intended End User: Teacher

Age Group: Upper Primary; Lower Secondary

School Curriculum: Science

Themes and Topics: Energy Use and Production; Collective Action; Environmental Change; Power & Influence; Citizenship

Duration: 90 min

Type of Resource: Game, Guidelines & Notes, Lesson Plans

Keywords: Biodiversity Conservation, Problem-Based Learning, Species Knowledge, Critical Thinking, Environmental Stewardship

Languages: English


Description

The resource introduces an engaging teaching method centered on the Mystery Game, designed to foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration among students. It focuses on the conservation of building-nesting species such as swifts, sparrows, kestrels, and bats, highlighting the impact of human activities on biodiversity.

Through small-group activities, students tackle real-world conservation challenges framed as mysteries, connecting biology concepts with environmental issues. The method incorporates diverse tools, including visual aids, QR codes, and structured inquiry, allowing students to analyze evidence, develop hypotheses, and present their findings.

Aligned with problem-based and inquiry-based learning approaches, the resource promotes Sustainability Citizenship, encouraging students to explore solutions to ecological problems while recognizing their role in conservation. It integrates scientific practices such as hypothesizing, data interpretation, and communication, making it suitable for interdisciplinary teaching.

The guide provides step-by-step instructions for implementation, including lesson formats, classroom procedures, and assessment strategies. It encourages student-led learning, creativity, and the development of critical competencies like teamwork, scientific inquiry, and public speaking.

By linking conservation efforts to students’ local contexts, the resource fosters environmental stewardship and awareness of human-wildlife coexistence. It serves as a flexible and dynamic tool for educators aiming to enhance their teaching practices while addressing key sustainability challenges.


How to use this resource

The resource contains a detailed pedagogical discussion of the method and a critical examination of the topic of “building breeders” as an example of species cognition and human influence.

The detailed description of the MYSTERY method helps the reader to adapt the game to their own needs or to create a mystery game independently.

There is also a complete lesson plan with prepared materials and implementation instructions.


The resources

MYSTERY Building Breeders PDF:




Creative Commons

Attributions Non-Commercial Share-Alike CC


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Zero Hunger
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Quality Education
Gender Equality
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Affordable and clean energy
Decent work and economic growth
Industry, innovation and infrastructure
Reduce inequalities
Sustainable cities and communities
Responsible consumption and production
Climate action
Life below water
Life on land
Peace, justice and strong institutions
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