Unit 7: Habitats - Sample Assessment Item Bank

Construct an explanation using evidence of how external features and adaptations (e.g., camouflage, use of hibernation, protection, migration, mimicry) of animals allow them to survive in their habitat.

• They make it easier for the alligator to climb trees.

• They help the alligator swim fast to catch its food.

• They help the alligator cool off in hot weather.

• They allow the alligator to grab food quickly.

What benefit would a nonvenomous snake have by looking like a venomous snake?

• They can move faster.

• They can get food easier.

• It helps them blend in better.

• Other animals will leave them alone.

Bullfrogs living in the mountain region burrow in the mud and sleep during the cold winter months. What is another example of this type of adaptation in the wild?

• Birds fly south during the winter months to stay warm.

• Frogs have the same appearance and texture as a tree.

An adaptation helps an animal survive in its habitat. Which adaptation best allows an alligator to catch small mammals?

• Its tail because it is strong and powerful.

• Its long snout because it can reach them easier.

• Its long teeth catch the animals quicker and easier.

• Its color blends in with the murky water so small mammals will not see it coming.

Many animals have adaptations that help them survive the colder winter temperatures in Georgia. Would it be better if turtles migrate or hibernate? Explain your thinking.

• It would be easier for turtles to migrate so they do not have to travel very far.

• It would be easier for turtles to migrate so they can still eat and survive outside.

• It would be easier for turtles to hibernate so they can still eat and survive outside.

• It would be easier for turtles to hibernate so they do not have to travel very far.

The gopher tortoise is the subject of which type of presentation?

• A presentation on the gopher tortoise

• A presentation on marine mammals

• A presentation on rainforest plants

• A presentation on desert reptiles

Which of the following explanations BEST describes how the tortoise has adapted to living in the Coastal Plains of Georgia?

• The animal has adapted to the local predators by using its strong legs to burrow holes in sand to stay safe while still receiving a lot of sunlight.

• The animal adapted to the local predators by staying safe by digging burrows in sand that are pitch black so predators cannot see them.

• The animal adapted to the environment by moving to an area that is covered with grasslands.

• The animal adapted to the environment by living in an area that is always sunny.

An eagle has sharp, curved talons. What does this characteristic most likely show about eagles?

• A. Eagles use their talons to help them swim.

• B. Eagles use their talons to transport their nests.

• C. Eagles use their talons to gather seeds.

• D. Eagles use their talons to catch their prey.

Winter weather causes a significant decrease in the food supply of most animals. Some mammals are able to survive on considerably less food during the winter. What adaptation have these animals developed?

• the ability to hibernate

• the ability to grow a thick coat

• an increased body temperature during the winter

• teeth that fall out during the winter

The picture shows a white-tailed deer.

• white-tailed deer

• moose

• elk

• caribou