Flight, evolution, and survival
Flight, evolution and survival
Flight, evolution, and survival
Explore. Learn. Take Action.
Birds are remarkable creatures: living links to the age of dinosaurs, vital players in ecosystems, and powerful indicators of environmental change.
In this unit, students explore how birds evolved, adapted, and shaped life on Earth — through interactive storytelling, real-world science, and project-based challenges.
This unit explores bird biology, behaviour, and the environmental challenges they face.
● Survival Through Time
Follow the evolutionary journey of birds from their dinosaur ancestors, tracing the traits that helped them thrive over millions of years.
● Ecosystem Architects
Understand how birds support biodiversity—through seed dispersal, pest control, pollination, and nutrient recycling.
● The Science of Survival
Explore remarkable adaptations like hollow bones, acute vision, directional hearing, and flight — and how these traits influence survival.
● Conservation in Crisis
Investigate the impact of climate change, habitat loss, and human activity on bird populations, breeding cycles, and migration.Future ConservationistsDiscover how students can take action through local projects, advocacy, and scientific inquiry.
This unit integrates curriculum science with real-world conservation.
Scientific Foundations
● Trace the evolution of birds from theropod dinosaurs
● Examine how feathers, bones, and beaks support flight and survival
● Understand visual, vocal, and behavioural communication strategies
● Investigate migration, mating, and habitat-specific adaptations
● Analyse food webs and birds’ roles in different ecosystems
Real-World Applications
● Study how changing climates affect bird behaviour and population dynamics
● Identify threats from deforestation, pollution, and urban development
● Evaluate how bird populations reflect ecosystem health
● Explore global and local case studies in bird conservation
● Propose solutions through student-led action projects
Everything you need to deliver this unit with confidence:
✔ Lesson plans
✔ Canvas project template
✔ Discussion prompts & extension activities
✔ Student certificates
✔ Assessment criteria
Partnered to deliver trusted, conservation-focused learning resources.
Supporting young people in Scotland to build a nature-rich future.