Difference Between Wild and Tame Animals

Core Learning Experience + Supplies and Equipment

​​Show some photos (or actual animals) that are pets. Discuss how they live with, and depend on people for their welfare, and give companionship in return. Talk about how cats, dogs, gerbils etc get food, sleep, and have shelter. Show photos of a mixed group of animals, including wild, and have the children choose the pets. Reasons?

Possible/Expected Discoveries

  • ​​Animals play varying roles in our daily lives. Some animals need to live in an environment where they can live as they want – to eat, find shelter etc. – they are called “wild”. Some animals have been domesticated, need people to take care of them and they provide companionship. These animals are ”tame”.
  • What do you think would happen if we did not feed a pet? Do we need to feed lions or bears? Tell some animals that you think might be wild, and your reason.
  • We need to act differently when we are near a tame animal, or a wild animal. Discussion and reasons.

Extended Learning and Other Curriculum Areas

  • Categorize various colored doggie biscuits into bowls. Count them. Which color has most? Least? Equal?
  • Set up a veterinarian office with stuffed animal pets.
  • Go to a park in your area, and observe and compare some wild animals (birds, squirrels, insects, etc) and some tame animals (dogs).​
  • Talk about the function of a zoo. Some animals that are usually wild are kept in environments that they are not originally from, so people can see them and learn about them. Ask older preschoolers if they think that zoos serve a purpose, or if the animals should be returned to their natural environment. Encourage discussion, reasons, and all opinions.

Activity Packs and Printables

Websites

Books