Connect students directly to the concept in a personal way. Capture students' attention by initiating a group problem-solving activity before delivery of instruction. Begin with a situation that is familiar to students and builds on what they already know. Construct a learning experience that allows diverse and personal student responses. Facilitate the work of cooperative teams of students.
Students observe their own grasshoppers.
Objective: To observe and experience a living insect. To enhance observational skills.
Activity: Students are assigned partners. Each pair of students is given its own live grasshopper. Containers: large glass jar covered with screen and/or cheesecloth. Add leaves, grass, food and water. Place on shelf or counter that allows for sun and shade. Instruct students as to proper care. Give them the following observation worksheets. 1. Name the body parts (head, thorax, abdomen). 2. Sketch and label them. 3. Observe the antennae. Are they thick or thin? 4. Sketch the antennae. What do you think they are for? 5. How many legs? All the same length? Are there joints? 6. Sketch the legs. 7. Are there wings? 8. What does your grasshopper eat? 9. How does it eat? Suck, bite or chew? 10. What environment does your grasshopper need? 11. What is its range of activity? Does light or darkness affect its activity? 12. Name your grasshopper. 13. Both of you must make a sketch of your grasshopper. Refer to your textbook if you need help.
