Science: Life Science

As a result of activities in Grades K-4, all students should develop an understanding of:

• the characteristics of organisms.
• organisms and environments.

Source: National Science Education Standards

Create a three-dimensional model of sea life to study aquatic habitats. Guide a discussion about special animal characteristics (adaptations) necessary for survival in this ecosystem. Students consider the balance of life under the sea and appreciate the challenges sea animals must experience when their habitats are affected by pollution. Have students brainstorm ways to protect sea creatures through conservation efforts.

Figure A

Figure B

Figure C

Figure D

Figure E

Note: The SM Fish #5 has been retired. Consider substituting with SM Fish #2. The SM Starfish has been retired. Consider substituting with the LG Shell #2.

Supplies Used: Construction Paper, Glue, Paper Plates (Coated, Heavy-Duty), Plastic Wrap (Blue), Scissors, Tape (Double-Sided), Thread

The teacher will die-cut the materials for student use prior to the lesson.

1. Using a craft knife cut a 6" diameter opening in a heavy-duty coated paper plate for each student (Figure A).
2. Cut an 8" square of blue plastic food wrap. With the paper plate sitting right side up, securely tape the plastic over the opening and cut off any excess plastic (Figure B). Set this plate, the front of the aquarium, aside.
3. Die-cut LG Coral, SM Fish #2 and SM Shell from a variety of colors of construction paper. Each student should decorate the flat bottom of a second heavy-duty coated paper plate, sitting right side up, using the die-cuts as desired (Figure C).
4. Provide each student with three 6" pieces of white thread.
5. Die-cut Tiny Fish from a variety of colors of construction paper. Tape one end of each piece of thread to a Tiny Fish (Figure D). Adhere a second Tiny Fish to the first, sandwiching the thread between the two.
6. Tape the other end of the three threads to the top lip of the paper plate varying the length and placement of the dangling Fish (Figure E). Trim off any excess thread.
7. Use glue or double-sided tape to adhere the rim of the front (with the opening) and the back (with the sea scene) together, allowing the dangling Fish to swing freely between the two plates (see Main Photo).