Crayfish, also known as "crawfish" or "crawdads," are easy to keep in the classroom, and with patience and luck, students will observe the complete life cycle of the crayfish. They will also learn about aquatic animals and habitats and get to conduct inquiry experiments about animal behavior. This article describes how a third-grade teacher used…

Provides suggestions for activities that focus on earthworms. Includes observational exercises on earthworms' reactions to light and touch. (ML)

Describes a project centering around earthworm activity in a compost bin. Includes suggestions for exercises involving biological and conservation concepts, gardening skills, and dramatical presentations. (ML)

Explains how to establish and maintain a woodland terrarium. Points out how this environment can be used to study animal interaction and can serve as a focal point for learning about a variety of elementary science concepts. (ML)

Describes some of the characteristics of the common harvestmen, or daddy longlegs, and the true spider. Provides information on harvestmen's habitats and life cycles and includes tips on housing and observing these organisms in science classrooms. (TW)

Encourages teachers to take advantage of the natural curiosity of young children in enhancing their interest in science. Describes four simple activities involving water, living and non-living things, air pollution, and food. (TW)

Describes methods for collecting insects including a ground trap, a light trap, a kill jar, and a "pooter." Includes illustrations and directions for making the collecting instruments. (MA)

Provides guidelines prepared by the National Science Teachers Association for the use and care of invertebrate and vertebrate animals in the classroom. Suggestions are made for conducting experimental and observational studies. (CS)

Describes a study that included classroom lessons on hydroelectric power, the history and construction of a nearby lake, data recording, the use of field guides, and methods of counting natural populations. The study culminated in a field trip to the lake. (JRH)

Describes a project in which students collect native seeds and build a greenhouse to propagate native plants in a desert laboratory. (DDR)

Describes cooperation with the Saint Louis Zoo to provide opportunities for elementary school students to learn about bones, how animals move, what they eat, and how much they grow. Uses biofacts which include bones, skulls, and other parts to make the laboratory a hands-on experience for students. (YDS)

Presents a trade book that can be used in teaching the life cycle of butterflies. Includes sample activities and Internet resources. (KHR)

Presents an outdoor activity to study pill bugs. Includes a lesson plan. (KHR)

Presents a hands-on activity that uses a skeleton to study anatomy and physiology concepts and explore the relationship between form and function in nature. (NB)

Described is an activity where students determine the effect of different toothpastes on teeth. Students used observational data and pH changes to determine any changes in the teeth. Included are a list of materials, procedures, and results. (KR)