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.

PRESENTATION

CONTENT
PROCEDURE

Step 1:

e.g.Leaves: What shape,size,colour,texture features differ?

What can we discover about prawns?

Find out about Western Australian 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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