Hatching Baby Chicks: A Memorable Experience at SPS with Agent Michelle Moss
At Shepherd Primary School (SPS), we recently had the incredible opportunity to host Agent Michelle Moss, who brought an exciting educational experience to our students—the hatching of baby chicks! This hands-on learning event not only captivated the students but also provided them with valuable insights into the life cycle of chickens and the responsibilities of animal care.
Agent Michelle Moss, a seasoned professional with extensive knowledge in agriculture and animal science, took the time to explain the fascinating process of hatching chicks. She began her presentation with an engaging discussion about the importance of chickens in our ecosystem, their role in agriculture, and how they contribute to our food supply. Her enthusiasm was infectious, and students were eager to learn more!
The Hatching Process
During the session, Mrs. Moss explained the entire hatching process, including the incubation period, which typically lasts about 21 days. She shared how temperature and humidity levels are crucial for the eggs to develop properly. Students learned about the different stages of development inside the egg and had the chance to see actual fertilized eggs in an incubator.
A School-Wide Initiative
This enriching experience was initially proposed by Mrs. Vann, who envisioned it as a lesson for her own students. Recognizing its potential, Principal Mrs. Lott expanded the idea, creating an opportunity for the entire Shepherd Primary School to witness this unforgettable event in Ms. Garza’s Science Lab. Thanks to Mrs. Vann’s vision and efforts, what began as a classroom idea grew into a meaningful, school wide experience.
The miracle chicks endured 21 days of development, including an unexpected power outage lasting an hour and a half. Demonstrating quick thinking and dedication, Mrs. Vann and Ms. Garza used their coats to cover the incubator, maintaining the necessary warmth for the eggs’ survival.
And the results were egg-cellent! Out of 12 eggs in Mrs. Vann’s classroom, an impressive 9 chicks hatched. In Ms. Garza’s Science Lab, 8 out of 11 eggs hatched successfully. With a total of 17 fluffy new arrivals, the excitement was truly contagious throughout the school!
Engaging the School Community
Mrs. Vann’s class closely followed the process in their own classroom as well, bringing a level of wonder and curiosity that the school greatly appreciated. Ms. Garza facilitated frequent discussions with all students about the development of the chicks, including candling them to observe the life forms developing inside the eggs.
A Lesson in Responsibility
Beyond the science of hatching, Mrs. Moss also emphasized the responsibility that comes with caring for animals. Students learned about proper feeding, housing, and the importance of a clean environment for the chicks’ well-being. This lesson extended beyond the classroom, as students discussed how they could apply this knowledge to their own experiences with pets and other animals.
The experience of hatching baby chicks with Agent Michelle Moss was not only educational but also a memorable event for the students at SPS. It fostered a sense of curiosity about the natural world and instilled a sense of responsibility toward living creatures.
We are grateful to Agent Michelle Moss for her time, expertise, and passion for educating our students. This event has undoubtedly left a lasting impression, sparking interest in biology, agriculture, and the importance of caring for our environment. We look forward to more enriching experiences like this in the future!