Choose Learning Type ▼

Feather Close-Up

Activity

Feeling Shape, Flexibility, and Function

Find a feather on the ground (check that it is clean and put it back where you found it!). Feel its texture and gently bend it. What do you notice about the shape, flexibility, and structure? Now think like a bird: Would this feather be better for flying, staying warm, or showing off? (always wash your hands after touching feathers)

Science Seed

Birds have different types of feathers that each serve a special purpose. Flight feathers are long, strong, and stiff. They help birds lift off, steer, and glide through the air. Down feathers are soft and fluffy, and they trap warm air close to the bird’s body to keep it from getting cold. Contour feathers cover the body and give birds their shape, helping them move smoothly through air and water. Some birds also have special display feathers, like the bright, colorful tail of a peacock, which they use to attract mates. By studying feathers, scientists learn how birds are built to survive in their environments, and these amazing structures have even inspired human inventions like airplane wings, jackets, and building insulation!

move to the next activity

earn Badges

Badges can be earned through hands-on experiences within each of the 16 branches of science, or “Science Slices.” You can earn a badge in each branch of science by doing four activities in these categories. We also encourage participants to keep a Nature Journal to record their memories, and to express themselves creatively through writing or drawing after each activity. We recommend that each child (and parent if they’d like) write or draw in a journal after each activity, with expectations of your children that match their age (the goal is self-expression, not perfection).

Explore Perez Elementary School

join Families in Nature

It is our vision to inspire all families to fall in love with nature and foster the next generation of conservationists. Becoming a member of Families in Nature will give your family the opportunity to have adventures in nature, experience field science, develop as youth conservation leaders, and make memories that will last a lifetime. Memberships are free for everyone.

Who are we?

Families in Nature works to create opportunities for nature connection with the purpose of sparking a deep love and desire to protect, conserve and restore the environment. Our mission is to connect children and their families to nature and to each other through time spent learning, playing, and volunteering outdoors. It is our vision to inspire ALL families to fall in love with nature and foster the next generation of conservationists.

Perez Elementary School is named in honor of Lance Cpl. Nicholas S. Perez, who gave his life in service to his country. Perez is a supportive learning community with a focus on service. At Perez, we believe effort creates ability and all students will learn at high standards if they are given clear expectations, taught using best practices adapted to their unique needs and provided extra time and resources as needed. Perez students have numerous opportunities to serve their school, community and environment. They receive powerful instruction in the core curriculum areas, as well as in technology, art, music, physical education, and health.

This project was made possible by The Powell Foundation.