Animals Vertebrates and inter vertebrates / Lesson Plan

Create Your Own Custom Lesson Plan
PDF

Objective

By the end of this lesson, Daniella and Alisia will be able to distinguish between vertebrates and invertebrates, identify examples of each, and understand their characteristics and habitats. They will also create a fun project that showcases their learning!

Materials and Prep

  • Paper and colored pencils or markers
  • Access to a notebook or journal for notes
  • Internet access for research (if available)
  • Animal classification chart (can be drawn or printed)
  • Time to discuss and present findings

Before the lesson, make sure to have a quiet space for research and creativity. Familiarize yourself with the basic definitions of vertebrates and invertebrates to guide the discussion.

Activities

  1. Animal Classification Chart: Daniella and Alisia will create a chart that lists various animals under the categories of vertebrates and invertebrates. They can use examples like dogs, cats, fish, insects, and worms. This will help them visualize the differences.

  2. Research and Presentation: Each student will choose one vertebrate and one invertebrate to research. They will find out interesting facts about their animals, including their habitat, diet, and unique features. After research, they will present their findings to each other.

  3. Creative Drawing: After learning about the two categories, Daniella and Alisia will draw their favorite vertebrate and invertebrate. They can label the parts of the animals and add fun facts around their drawings.

Talking Points

  • "What do you think makes an animal a vertebrate? That's right! Vertebrates have a backbone. Can you name some vertebrates?"
  • "Now, let's talk about invertebrates. What do you think they have in common? Exactly, they don’t have a backbone! Can you think of any examples?"
  • "Did you know that vertebrates are usually larger than invertebrates? Why do you think that is?"
  • "Invertebrates make up about 95% of all animal species! Isn’t that amazing? Why do you think there are so many of them?"
  • "Let’s think about habitats. Where do you think vertebrates and invertebrates live? Do they prefer the same environments?"
  • "Can you name some vertebrates that live in the ocean? How about invertebrates? What adaptations help them survive in their habitats?"
  • "Why do you think it’s important to learn about different types of animals? How do they affect our ecosystem?"
  • "What are some ways that humans can help protect the habitats of both vertebrates and invertebrates?"
  • "Let’s compare the features of your two animals. What similarities and differences do you notice?"
  • "How do you feel about the diversity of animals on our planet? Does it inspire you?"
  • "What was the most surprising thing you learned today about vertebrates or invertebrates?"
  • "Finally, why do you think it’s important to respect all forms of life, whether they have a backbone or not?"