The Gapon Viper, Howler Monkey, Leaf Cutter Ant and the Happy Face Spider are just a few of the animals profiled by Persell Middle School fifth graders as part of their English Language Arts unit called, “Biodiversity in Rainforests of the Western Hemisphere,” which also incorporates science and social studies. As part of their studies, students read The Most Beautiful Roof in the World by Kathryn Lasky. The beautifully illustrated informational, non-fiction book describes the world of scientists documenting the biodiversity of the rainforests and features researcher, Meg Lowman.

“I didn’t know anything about the rainforests before I read the book,” said Persell Middle School fifth grader, Baylin Dunlap. “A cool thing that I learned is that Meg Lowman used a dirigible to float about the rainforest in order to research the top of the canopy. She also found over 250 different insects in a 16-square foot perimeter. It’s important for us to study about the plants and animals in the rainforest as it affects so much of our environment.”

Students researched one living thing that Ms. Lowman may have encountered in the rainforest. They had to write with clear and effective word choices about their chosen animal, find out 10 fun facts about the animal, and create a presentation with pictures.

“I chose the Capuchin monkey,” said Persell Middle School fifth grader, Jacob Smeraldo. “A cool fact about the Capuchin monkey is that they got their name because they look like Spanish Capuchin monks.”

The fifth graders will also participate in a virtual field trip to the Buffalo Zoo with the help of JPS Technology Information Specialist Coach, Jason Kathman. The Buffalo Zoo Rainforest Experience will introduce students to live animals and teach them more about the biodiversity of the rain forest. They will learn about the layers, sounds, smells, and animals of the world’s vanishing rainforests and discover the importance of the rainforest and the consequences of its destruction. Also, students will learn what they can do to help save this vanishing habitat.

After hearing about other distance learning connections happening within the district, Persell fifth grade teacher, Mindy Trapani decided it would be a perfect way to end the rainforest unit. “I wanted a fun culminating activity to celebrate the hard work students accomplished while learning about the rainforest. I would like to extend a special thanks to Mr. Kathman, Rebecca Balk at the Buffalo Zoo, and Bryan Olson at BOCES for making this learning experience possible for all of our fifth grade students.”