CurriculumGrade 3Science

Traits That Help You Survive

Aligned to 3-LS4-2 — Next Generation Science Standards.

What this lesson teaches

Small differences between animals can help some survive better than others. A helpful trait makes it easier to find food, hide, or stay safe.

Worked example

A rabbit with fur that matches the snow is harder for a fox to spot, so it is more likely to live and have babies.

Practice questions

  1. Pick an animal and name one trait that helps it find food or escape danger.
  2. Compare two animals in the same place and decide whose trait gives a bigger advantage.
  3. Explain how a helpful trait could get passed on to that animal's babies.

Watch the lesson

Every lesson comes with a video taught in English and Spanish — the same video the QR code in the printed workbook opens.

▶ Watch this lesson

En español

Rasgos que ayudan a sobrevivir

Las pequeñas diferencias entre animales pueden ayudar a algunos a sobrevivir mejor que a otros. Un rasgo útil facilita encontrar comida, esconderse o estar a salvo.

Ejemplo: Un conejo con pelaje del color de la nieve es más difícil de ver para un zorro, así que tiene más probabilidad de vivir y tener crías.

More Life Science lessons

Adaptation and Survival3-LS4Traits From Parents3-LS3-1The Environment Shapes Traits3-LS3-2Clues From Fossils3-LS4-1When the Environment Changes3-LS4-4

Teach this lesson today

An AI tutor that guides with questions instead of just giving answers — all K–12 core subjects, every child in the family.

Start free — no card required