An Introduction to Insects and Arachnids using Pokémon

Description

In each of four recordings, we will study a group of "bugs" that have some striking similarities to Pokémon. We will examine several different types of arthropods and their characteristics, including insects (butterflies, bees, ants, beetles, etc.), arachnids (spiders, ticks, mites, scorpions, etc.), and myriapods (centipedes and millipedes). Students will practice comparing and contrasting creatures from the Arthopod phylum when reading/listening to descriptions about them, viewing pictures side-by-side, and watching video clips of insect behavior and life cycles. We will also learn how to create and use a Venn Diagram as a comparison tool. Students can also design their own insect-like Pokémon.

Recording 1:

• Introduction to taxonomy

• Basic characteristics of the phylum Arthropoda

• Defining characteristics of the Class Insecta

• The insect orders not included as Pokemon

• Order Lepidoptera (butterflies and moths)

Recording 2:

• Order Odonata (dragonflies and damselflies)

• Order Neuroptera (net-winged insects)

• Order Diptera (flies and mosquitos)

• Order Hymenoptera (ants, bees, and wasps)

Recording 3:

• Order Hemiptera (true bugs)

• Order Orthoptera (crickets and grasshoppers)

• Order Mantodea (praying mantises)

• Order Phasmatodea (stick insects)

• Order Blattodea (cockroaches)

• Order Coleoptera (beetles)

Recording 4:

• The defining characteristics of the Class Arachnida

• The different types of Arachnids: ticks, scorpions, spiders, harvestmen

• Characteristics of Myriapods

• The differences and similarities of millipedes and centipedes

• Introduction to the Three Circle Venn Diagram

Please note that this is not a comprehensive overview of ALL arthropods. Aquatic arthropods are instead included in my "Pokemon Under the Sea" course.

What You Will Learn!

• Understand the the basics of biological classification systems, particularly Phylum Arthropoda.
• Compare and contrast two similar creatures using a Venn Diagram.
• Explain the behaviors and life cycles of several different insects and arachnids.
• Describe the defining characteristics of insects, arachnids, and myriapods.
• Explain why spiders, scorpions, centipedes, millipedes, and ticks are not technically insects - and how they are related to insects.
• Describe the similarities and differences of their favorite "bug" Pokemon when compared with the real deal.

Who Should Attend!

• Pokemon fans who want to learn more about insects and spiders

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