Animal Survival - Needs and Wants Cards

When teaching the concept of animal survival, educators often use a variety of resources to help students differentiate between the needs and wants of animals. One such educational tool is the "Needs and Wants Cards," which are designed to engage students in understanding the fundamental requirements for an animal's survival. These cards typically feature a range of items, some of which are essential for an animal's well-being, such as food, water, shelter, and the space to roam, while others are non-essential and categorised as wants. These wants may include items that are not critical for survival but could enhance the quality of life for the animal.

Using the Needs and Wants Cards in a classroom setting encourages interactive learning and discussion among students. They can sort the cards into two categories, identifying what an animal must have to live healthily and what it could have for additional comfort or pleasure. This activity not only promotes critical thinking but also instills a foundational understanding of animal welfare and the environment. It can lead to broader conversations about habitat conservation, human impact on wildlife, and the importance of meeting the basic needs of all living creatures. This hands-on approach to learning helps students to empathise with animals and recognise the difference between necessary and supplementary provisions in the context of animal survival.