Subject: Natural Science Grade: 4 Primary
Duration: 30 minutes
General Aim: Acquisition of Information
Specific Aims: To develop research skills through the study of the prawn as an example of a crustacean. To attempt classification of other members of the crustacean family.
Basic Method: Study
Preparation: Teacher: Specimens have been obtained and newspaper, hand lenses etc are ready for distribution. A prepared board diagram is hidden from view. Labels are in readiness.
Reference: Grolier Society, Australian Encyclopedia, Vol VII, p.257.
Step
1: e.g.Leaves: What
shape,size,colour,texture features differ? What can we discover about
prawns? Setting the
Problem Through reference to earlier
lesson, observational strategies are recalled. Teacher introduces the
problem. Step
2: Prawns, lenses and newspaper (to
protect desk tops) Looking for the
Solution Specimens, lenses and newspaper are
distributed by class monitors. Children are allowed
opportunity to freely observe the specimens. Noting of
observations is encouraged. Step
3: Anticipated Findings: A hard
coated outer body or shell, soft inside, no bones, many legs
differentiated in appearance, feelers, fantail, grey green
in colour etc. How do legs differ? What functions
do they possibly serve? Why is the body segmented
etc? Invertebrate, exoskeleton,
segmented Checking
Findings Children volunteer findings which
are clarified and extended by re-reference to the
specimens. Through questioning teacher directs
observations, eliciting further information and encouraging
comparison with earlier findings. Vocabulary is introduced
where appropriate. Step
4: Generally found in warm estuarine
waters October to March though ocean beds are located NSW,
Queensland and Western Australia.Many varieties including
King, Inshore Greasyback which unlike others doesn't migrate
to sea for spawning. Females lay 200,000 to 500,000 eggs.
Prawns belong to crustacean family. Caught by trawling or
handnets. Enrichment Teacher supplies additional
information on habitat, breeding habits etc. clarifying
concepts with simple board drawings. Step
5: Cards stating: segmented body,
antennae, exoskeleton, tail-fan etc. Board drawing of
prawn. Cards showing crab, spider, shark,
lobster, octopus, etc. Consolidation Children label the prepared board
diagram. Children attempt a classification
of other crustaceans by selection from a range of
diagrams.Reasons for choice are given. Children commence recording
individual diagrams and observations in their
books. Equipment is collected and
specimens are disposed of. (If cooked prawns are available,
specimens can be eaten.) Teacher commends children for
accuracy of observations, cooperative behaviour
etc.

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