Objectives:

Students will create a three-dimensional scale model of a gorilla habitat. The habitat design will be based on information that the students gathered from:

1)  their research on gorillas in the wild, and
2)  their videoconference with the Buffalo Zoo.

Students should include the following in their design:

1.       Space considerations: (indoor/outdoor) (horizontal/vertical)

2.       Enrichment objects/ animal recreation 

3.       Simulation of vegetation and rock formations

4.       Open area / dense vegetation area

5.       Drawing and model in scale

6.       Designer's statement and rational

7.       List of possible materials to be used if a full-size habitat were built.

Background: 

Students need to complete basic fact-finding research on the Lowland Gorilla (see pre teleconference activities).

Students need to complete a discussion of the benefits of and rational for zoo development and creation.

Students need to  participate in discussion of a Zoo’s considerations in caring for a gorilla.

Introduction Activity:

“A Jungle of Your Own” – Teenagers' bedrooms are their own personal habitat, students develop a statement of their interests and needs. Discuss with students how  creating their own personal space compares to creating a gorilla habitat. Use the list above to facilitate the discussion.

Activity Description:

The development of zoo habitats is going through dramatic change. As zoos transform from places  to view animals as recreational activities to places that educate,  research and  promote species conservation, the need for  more natural habitats is a priority. Students will design a three- dimensional scale model of a zoo habitat for the Lowland Gorilla.

Time Required:

3D Scale Model – 2 weeks

2D Scale Drawing only – 1 week

Materials:

1. Paper mache mix
2. Newspaper
3. Cardboard
4. Masking tape
5. Rulers
6. Graph paper
7. Box of odds and ends to help in creating gorilla recreation
8. Glue gun

 Procedure:

 Day 1:

Discussion and review of students' knowledge gained from completing the pre-conference activities and their response to the teleconference with the Buffalo Zoo.  Set the stage for the students to take on the role of gorilla habitat designer.

 Day 2:

Explain project criteria. 

Start scale drawings on graph paper.

 Day 3:

Work on scale drawings.

 Day 4:

Complete scale drawings.

Introduction and demonstration of 3 dimensional materials and techniques.

Students begin scale models.

 Days 5-8:

Creating scale models

Critique Progress

 Day 9:

Complete three-dimensional models.

Critique success of 3-D models in large or small groups.

Discussion Questions:

 1. Describe the natural habitat of the lowland gorilla.

2. In what country would you find the lowland gorilla?

3. Describe the physical characteristics of the lowland gorilla.

4. Why are zoos becoming more important to many species?

5. What reasons do zoos have for creating more natural habitats for animals?

6. What types of habitat building materials will withstand a gorilla’s daily use?

7.What types of recreation objects could you use in a gorilla’s habitat?

8.Why is it important for designers to build scale models?

9.If you had to build your habitat again, what would you change?

10.How have your thoughts about gorillas and how they live changed during this project?

Assessment:
See Rubric
 

Teacher Resources: Refer to Web Links

Specifications for new (1981) Buffalo Zoo Gorilla Exhibit below

Exhibit Construction
Specifications For New Buffalo Zoo Gorilla Exhibit

 Designed by Jerry M. Johnson Inc., Boston Mass

1.8 million dollar project opened in June of 1981

Made of precast natural rock formations (gunnite cement) applied under pressure

40 feet from floor to ceiling, approximately 3,000 square feet.

4 viewing windows of 1 inch thick, laminated tempered glass

6,000 sq. feet of skylight

2 charged wire systems to protect gorillas and plantings (similar to cattle fencing).

Waterfall is filtered and recycled, and is not used for drinking water.

Plantings

Approximately 40 species and varieties of plants, valued at  $17,000

1,600 cu. ft. of potting soil (enough to fill two tractor trailers).

Plants lifted by ropes to upper level (some weigh 1000 lbs.).

Insect pests controlled by other insects(ladybugs eat mealy bugs).

Temperature maintained at a constant 70-72 degrees and the humidity at 60-70%.

Birds 

Superb glossy starling

Lady Ross’s Plantain Eater

Off Exhibit Area

Stalls (4) are 12 ft. by 12 ft.

Gorillas are housed off exhibit for cleaning, feeding, and maintaining compatible groupings in the exhibit area