Activity 1:Activity Overview
This activity introduces students to the concept of biodiversity. They observe a variety of living organisms, as well as preserved slides. They are given the opportunity to look at hydra, planarians, earthworms, hermit crabs, and frogs. This investigation is not intended to be an abbreviated study of animal phyla. Its primary purpose is to sharpen students’ observations of living animals and introduce them to the incredible diversity in the animal kingdom. Students will also examine the relationship between structure and function through observing the adaptations of different organisms to their environment.
Preparation and Materials Needed
Preparation
You will need to ensure before beginning this unit that the living organisms required for this activity are available for your class. This is an exciting, inviting, hands-on approach for students to begin their study of biology. It is definitely worth the preparation time to engage the students in this way. Preserved as well as live specimens can be purchased from biological supply houses.
The stations will need to be set up before the students arrive for class.
You may wish to duplicate Blackline Master Ecology 1.1: Comparing Animals
data sheet for the students to use to record their observations.
Materials/Equipment Needed (per group)
Station 1- stereomicroscope or 10x hand lens
- watch glass
- dropping pipette
- compound microscope
- no. 2 paintbrush
- prepared slide of longitudinal section of hydra
- 1 or 2 live hydra
- daphnia culture
Station 2
- stereomicroscope or 10x hand lens
- watch glass
- 1 or 2 live planaria
- small piece of raw liver
- no. 2 paint brush
- compound microscope
- prepared slide of cross section of planaria
Station 3
- hand lens
- paper towels (moistened)
- compound microscope
- 1 or 2 live earthworms
- box containing damp soil
- prepared slide of cross section of earthworm
Station 4
- no. 2 paintbrush
- shallow box or pan
- small pieces of fruit or lettuce
- 1 live land hermit crab
Station 5 |