Camp Zoo at School

Bring the magic of summer camp
to your to school any time with
Camp Zoo at school!

Camp Zoo At School

If you are looking for engaging STEM content to include in the classroom or afterschool program, Camp Zoo at School is here to help. Camp Zoo at School uses the energy and fun of summer camp to engage students in learning how to “build a zoo.” Content includes animal encounters, behind-the-scenes tours, guided visits to Zoo exhibits, craft and learning activities, and scientific investigations. Choose from three different topics (birds, mammals, reptiles and amphibians) which are each filled with hours of carefully curated, engaging digital content on a secure online platform.

Camp Zoo At School is designed for students in grades 3 – 6 to participate independently. Activities can be used with younger students with adult guidance. Content is delivered by animated and engaging instructor staff who are trained in interpretive techniques and activity facilitation. All content is available in pre-recorded format, making it flexible to be used however best suits your needs. Use the activities to complement regular curriculum or build your program around them…it’s all up to you!

Your one-time fee grants access to all the videos and activity descriptions plus a materials list for a full four weeks.

Fee: $75 for four weeks access per theme per classroom or afterschool group for up to 40 students.

To book this program contact our Call Center at 602.914.4333. 

Children's

Build the Zoo Topics

How does a Zoo create a home for animals? Students will be able to answer that question and will develop their knowledge of zoology and animal care. Each topic will focus on a specific group of animals to learn about their adaptations, habitats and how we create exhibits that meet varied animal needs. Within each topic, campers will design and create their own Zoo exhibit. And who knows? Maybe their design will be inspiration for a new or redesigned Phoenix Zoo exhibit! 

Topics:

  • Birds
    • Key Concepts:
      1. Identify and observe the unique characteristics of birds.
      2. Observe and explain the adaptations that allow some birds to fly and use that knowledge to create a model of a wing and a paper airplane.
      3. Get an in-depth look at the process of developing a new exhibit for an animal.
      4. Evaluate the needs of keepers, animals, and Zoo guests when developing a new exhibit design.
      5. Design and create a model of an exhibit for a bird that meets the needs of the animal, zoo guests, and keepers.
  • Reptiles and Amphibians
    • Key Concepts:
      1. Identify and observe the unique characteristics of reptiles and amphibians.
      2. Get an in-depth look at the ways keepers care for the animals at the Phoenix Zoo.
      3. Practice critical thinking and problem-solving just like a Phoenix Zoo vet!
      4. Discover what factors are involved in maintaining a healthy temperature and climate in a reptile or amphibian exhibit.
      5. Design and create a model of an exhibit for a reptile or amphibian that addresses the temperature and climate needs of the animal and the diet it eats.
  • Mammals
    • Key Concepts:
      1. Identify and observe the unique characteristics of mammals.
      2. Learn about the Phoenix Zoo’s role in conservation efforts and everyday actions you can take to help wildlife!
      3. Practice your story-telling skills by creating a comic about a conservation issue.
      4. Consider how to teach guests about conservation topics using exhibit design.
      5. Design and create a model of an exhibit for a mammal that includes messaging about conservation issues