Explore the wild side of your virtual classroom with a Zoo educator. Discover animals, habitats and conservation through engaging virtual school programs from the Smithsonian’s National Zoo. These discussion-oriented lessons are designed to correspond with Next Generation Science Standards.
The Zoo’s virtual programs are made possible by technology purchased with generous support from T-Mobile.
What Makes a Habitat a Home?
Explore habitats around the world, from deserts to rainforests and everything in between. What makes these habitats suitable animal homes?
Grades: K-3
Lifecycles of the Smooth and Scaly
How does a salamander go from an egg to an adult? Discover the stages of amphibian lifecycles, from water to land.
Grades: K-3
Incredible Ectotherms
Snakes, salamanders, caecilians, oh my! Explore the commonalities and differences among ectotherms.
Grades: K-4
Zoo Walk
Come along on a virtual tour as we explore animals at the Zoo. Your choice of three trails: American Trail, Lions and Tigers, or Cheetah Conservation Station. Seeing animals is not guaranteed. Offered seasonally.
Grades: K-5
Nature Walk
There’s so much to discover right outside your door! Meander along nature trails with a Zoo educator and learn to appreciate your natural surroundings. Offered seasonally.
Grades: K-5
Suited for Survival
Learn how adaptations help animals thrive. From camouflaging sand cats to armored armadillos, each unique adaptation serves an important purpose.
Grades: K-5
Format
Virtual school programs are live, hosted via Zoom and are approximately 45 minutes long. Students will be visible to the Zoo educator and their classmates, and will have the ability to raise their hands to respond or ask questions. In order to participate in this format, those registering will need to sign a consent form indicating permission for students to participate in virtual programs. For questions about program participation, contact nzp-education@si.edu.
Size
Groups must contain at least 10 students to participate in this program. Virtual school programs are best enjoyed by groups of up to 100 students. If you have more students than the program capacity, please register for a second program or write in a special request for consideration. If you are seeking a program for a larger class or group, visit the webinars page for more information.
How to Register
Virtual school programs are free, but registration is required. See the Virtual Programs Calendar to register for an upcoming program.
All programs are based on availability. If the program is booked, you can join the wait list for your desired date. You will be contacted to confirm your program and to follow up on logistics.
Questions?
Contact the Zoo's Center for Learning Innovation at nzp-education@si.edu.