In the Montessori upper elementary curriculum, zoology is focused on “what the eye cannot see” in animals. This includes the structure of an animal cell, the animal’s internal anatomy, adaptation/behavior, and ecology. Studying the internal parts of vertebrates is an important part of zoology as it helps children make sense of what all vertebrates have in common (respiratory system, circulatory system, digestive system…). That is why we offer a series of materials specifically for internal parts and functions of vertebrates: Internal Parts of Vertebrates Study – Complete Set. Children naturally understand what makes vertebrates similar and different by working through all five groups of vertebrates (fish, amphibian, reptile, bird, and mammal). They can observe basic structures such as the spinal cord to small organs such as multi-chambered hearts, kidneys, or stomachs.
Before studying vertebrates’ internal parts and functions, learners had studied the external parts and functions of vertebrates and invertebrates. Learning about internal parts of animals can also serve as a bridge to the concept of dissection. Dissection is presented at the upper elementary level and is a delicate topic where learners can practice dissection based on their sensitivity level. Therefore, not only are our new puzzles on internal parts of vertebrates excellent for comparing animals, but they also offer an alternative option to dissection.
Materials
- Internal Parts of a Bony Fish Puzzle with Nomenclature Cards (6-9) (Printed)
- Internal Parts of a Frog Puzzle with Nomenclature Cards (6-9) (Printed)
- Internal Parts of a Turtle Puzzle with Nomenclature Cards (6-9) (Printed)
- Internal Parts of a Chicken Puzzle with Nomenclature Cards (6-9) (Printed)
- Internal Parts of a Cow Puzzle with Nomenclature Cards (6-9) (Printed)
Related materials:
- 4D Vision Cow Anatomy Model
- 4D Vision Chicken Anatomy Model
- Animal Kingdom Chart w/Cards- Vertebrates
- Parts of an Animal Cell Puzzle
- Rectangular Cabinet for Six Science or Geography Puzzles
Order in Which to Introduce the Set
To introduce the materials, it is recommended to present the animals in the order in which they appeared on Earth: fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals. Before the lesson on fish, gather a real fish specimen or a 3D model. Have children observe it and present the 2D puzzle version of the fish. You can remove the puzzle parts from the base and reconstruct it on a working surface. To reactivate existing knowledge, you may ask what children know about fish (respiratory, circulatory, digestive system…). Give children the wooden labels and control chart to label the parts of a fish. Use the nomenclature cards to read the definition aloud and establish key vocabulary. The definitions not only contain scientific terminology, but they also provide interesting facts about the animals to keep learners engaged. Once all the descriptions have been read, learners might attempt to use the nomenclature cards with cloze tests (fill in the blank) and match them to the appropriate labels and pictures. It may take several days to introduce all the parts and have learners internalize the content. Suggest to your learners to observe real fish, to create their personal booklets, or to complete the backline diagram and workbook included in the Nomenclature Cards set.
We hope to keep children inspired and learning and develop an appreciation for science! Check out our perfect companion materials for this complete curriculum: Types of Animal Respiratory and Excretory Organs Set. Visit our website for more zoology materials!
