Overview

The class is divided up into three groups which rotate through three different stations over the course of the class (approximately one hour.)

Introduction: Whole Class

We talk about what a zebrafish needs to survive and create a list on the board using images (not words.) The students discuss each item and decide if humans need them as well.

Station One: Meet the Fish!

Students start out by looking at adult zebrafish and trying to determine the differences between the male and female fish. Students will get a chance to use magnifying lenses to get a closer look. We will talk about the life cycle of a zebrafish: egg, embryo, larva, adult.

Station Two: Embryos and Larvae!

Students use microscopes! Since this can be hard for young kids, we will bring one microscope that displays images on a small attached screen and another microscope (the Dinoscope) that attaches to a computer. This will allow the kids to observe the embryos and larva of the zebrafish. Students can visualize the heart, eyes, and backbone, and compare it to what makes up their own body.

Station Three: Be a Scientist!

We bring lab coats, gloves, and safety goggles for the students to try on and "dress like a scientist." For extra practice using the microscope, the students can go on a "scavenger hunt" in the classroom looking for everyday items that they can bring to our Dinoscope for a closer look.