Count the Wild: Animal Population Math Camp

How do scientists know how many elephants or penguins live in an area? In this four-day camp learners use the same math tools wildlife scientists use: sampling, estimating, tallying and graphing.

Each day tackles a new habitat and a new counting method. Learners also build a small habitat model and use it to run a population survey, finishing the camp with a mini report on how their animal population is changing.

How classes work

Camp meets on back-to-back days. Each day builds on the last, mixing short demos, hands-on work and time to share progress, so learners finish the week with a complete project.

What we'll cover

• Day 1: Sampling the Savanna – Estimate zebra herds using grid sampling and multiplication.

• Day 2: Penguin Colony Count – Tally and organize penguin data, then build a colony habitat model.

• Day 3: Changing Populations – Graph population changes over time and spot patterns.

• Day 4: Wildlife Report – Run a survey on your habitat model and present a mini report.

No experience needed. Learners need a device with a camera and microphone for live classes.