1. Before you conduct your own observations, read samples from Dr. Goodall’s research.
   
   • In the beginning, Jane wrote up her notes in a narrative fashion.
   • Jane later adopted more standardized methods, using datasheets and the time interval technique.
     
2. Read about the different primate behaviors to prepare for your general observations at the zoo.
3. Print out the datasheet and be sure to take it with you on the field trip!
4. Choose one particular category of behaviors (e.g., Aggression) to focus on in the second part of your data collection and then find our more by reading about the behavior.
5. In the “Specific Behaviors” section of the data sheet, fill in behaviors you will look for under your chosen category. For example, if you chose Aggression and you will be viewing chimpanzees, you may write arm raise, charging display, and biting in the provided spaces.
   

At Gombe, two researchers work side by side to collect data of chimpanzee behavior. One researcher records data on a target individual and the other records data on the entire group of chimpanzees. When making your observations at the zoo, you and your partner will mirror the research methodology used at Gombe.

Click here for field trip instructions.

• Prepare a formal lab report, including hypothesis, procedure, data, drawings, and conclusions.
• Back in your classroom, share your findings in a class discussion.
• Send your observations to the zookeepers and thank them for their time.