Both of my boys are exploring life science this year, which means that their curriculum overlaps at least some of the time (thank goodness!). Right now Colby is learning some basic comparative anatomy: vertebrates vs. invertebrates.
Our classroom laptop is playing a larger role this year than it previously has. Carefully chosen online games and videos can keep one child engaged and learning while I work one-on-one with the other. I got a pair of good headphones with volume control (Kidz Gear Wired Headphones For Kids), so that the computer sounds aren't a distraction.
This video on vertebrates and invertebrates was great for Colby. It's less than six minutes long, but it's well done and there's lots of good information!
Bobbie Kalman is a fantastic author of science books for children; we rely on her often. Her name is one of the first searches I try when I'm trying to find the right book. The books above are perfect for first graders studying vertebrates and invertebrates!
We completed this cut-and-paste sorting activity and added it to Colby's Interactive Science Notebook. There are 18 creatures to sort; it can be a bit tricky!
Vertebrates included are: shark, frog, wolf, bat, walrus, chameleon, bird, snake, and penguin.
Invertebrates are: crab, jellyfish, butterfly, earthworm, scorpion, clams, spider, fly, and starfish.
Another great book to try is Bone by Bone: Comparing Animal Skeletons by Sara Levine.
Both of the boys read through it more it than once; it's a pretty cool book!
For more ideas and activities, check out our Pinterest boards! Almost everything on our 168 (and counting!) boards is either free or DIY.
Do you have an awesome idea or activity for learning about animal classification or comparative anatomy? Share it in the comments!
