For higher grades, encourage students to cut out photos of animals in their natural habitat. Or encourage students to group photos into predator or prey groups. Elect an animal mascot for your class. Have students nominate and vote for the animal they would like. Discuss this animal's basic needs.
All animals require food, water, shelter and space.
Particular animals may have additional needs. Have students become mascot experts. Use this animal as an online search keyword, read books or watch videos about this animal. Discuss the idea of having a class party to which you would invite your mascot.