Monday's Lesson Plan
Endangered species exist on each continent. An endangered species is an animal group or population that is at risk of becoming extinct because either only a small number of the animals still live or they are threatened by environmental changes or predators. North America has a long list of endangered species. With the population increase and city growth and expansion, animal habitats are becoming smaller. Animals are forced out of their natural habitat. Unfortunately many of these animals are unable to adapt to new environments.

Saving the Rainforest

Tuesday's Lesson Plan
Many of the countries in South America are in a state of rapid growth. This growth means a better economy, more jobs, and a higher standard of living. However with this growth also comes urban expansion and pollution. Many of the plant and animal species in South America are suffering from the effects of habitat loss and pollution due to the rapid growth of cities.

Wednesday's Lesson Plan
Habitat loss is the greatest cause of endangered species in Africa. The rainforest in the Congo is being cut for lumber leaving hundreds of animal species without their natural habitat. Perhaps the second largest contributor to endangered status has been poaching and over exploitation. Animals like the elephant have been hunted for centuries for their beautiful ivory tusks. The animals of Africa suffer from the impact humans have on the environment. Efforts must be made to lessen this impact in order to save these exotic species.

Thursday's Lesson Plan
Asia has several endangered animals that have captured the hearts of people around the world. Two of these are the giant panda and the tiger. These animals are poached because some part of their anatomy is used in traditional asian medicine. Pollution is another great concern as numerous new coal burning factories are built each day.

Friday's Lesson Plan
Australia is home to a variety of animals that exist only on that continent. A majority of the world's marsupial population live in Australia. Eighteen mammal species have become extinct in Australia in the last 200 years. Habitat destruction or change are in part to blame for these losses. It is important to preserve the unique wildlife of Australia from these threats.