Minibeasts are invertebrates, which are animals that lack a backbone. Invertebrates are classified according to their features and can be broken down into phylum’s: Arthropoda, Annelida and Mollusca. These phylum’s are divided further into sub-groups:

• Arthropoda – insect, arachnid, myriapod, crustacean
• Annelida – worm
• Mollusca – snail, slug

No prior knowledge is required.

This can be a pre-visit, post-visit or a stand alone activity.

What are the main body parts of invertebrates and how do these features help them survive in their environment?

In this program students will:

• Recognise different body parts of minibeasts
• Explain the role of the body parts
• Collect and record data
• Learn how to label a diagram
• Learn how to use magnifying glasses

Students will:

• Observe a variety of living and preserved minibeasts, noting the minibeast parts
• Observe phasmids (stick/leaf insects) and discuss their adaptations
• Draw and, where possible, label the parts of the leaf insect

Science – Science as a human endeavour

• Scientific knowledge is based on observations of the natural world using the senses, and scientific tools and instruments (VC2S2H01)

Science – Science understanding

• Plants and animals have observable features that can be used to group them in different ways (VC2S2U01)
• Plants and animals have basic needs, including air, water, food and shelter; the places where they live meet those need (VC2S2U02)

Science – Science Inquiry

• Observations, findings and ideas can be shared with others by using everyday and some scientific vocabulary (VC2S2I06)