Teacher's Prompt: Longhorn

For this week's Wildlife Writing Wednesday, we wanted to offer some insight for you as the instructor in case:

• you want to offer any introductory discussion for your students before releasing the prompt to them

• it is helpful for you in your evaluation/understanding

• this understanding helps you to alter the prompt for grade level

PROMPT:

When the Spanish and English came to America, they brought cattle with them from their respective countries. Those cattle became feral or wild across Mexico and Texas, and produced what we know today as the Texas Longhorn. What physical characteristics does the Longhorn have? Why is this breed of cattle special to Texas? What does that mean to you?

The Texas Longhorn does not have a recorded status within IUCN’s Red List, because it is considered to be domesticated.

For a full explanation of the breed’s history, visit the International Texas Longhorn Association’s (ITLA) website.

ITLA’s website also includes an explanation for the Longhorn’s Legacy.

Lesson Plans from Texas Tech University’s Ranching Heritage Museum are available on their website.