Grade 5 · Science · Lesson 19

Animal Adaptations

Every habitat is different — hot deserts, freezing arctic, dark caves, and salty oceans all challenge the animals that live there. An adaptation is a trait that helps an animal survive in its habitat. Adaptations build up slowly over many generations as the animals best suited to a place pass on their traits.

What this lesson teaches

1Define an adaptation as a trait that helps an animal survive
2Tell the difference between physical and behavioral adaptations
3Match common adaptations to the habitats they fit
4Explain how adaptations help animals find food, stay safe, and raise young

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