Hopper Herding

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In this outdoor activity and game, learners roundup a "herd" of hopping insects and find out how many different kinds or species are in their herd. Using their powers of observation, learners discover that not all hoppers (grasshoppers, katydids and crickets) are alike, but have key characteristics that are very different—antennae of different lengths, heads that are angular or round, certain color or markings, and sometimes a special body part called an ovipositer for laying eggs in the ground.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
10 to 30 minutes
Learning Time:
45 to 60 minutes
Estimated Materials Cost:
$10 - $20 per group of students
Age Range:
Ages 8 - 14
Resource Types:
Activity, Game, Lesson/Lesson Plan
Language:
English

Materials List (per group of students)

  • 2 data boards or large drawing pads
  • hand lenses or bug boxes
  • large ziplock bags
  • clear plastic sheet 100 cm X 130 cm
  • 2 marking pens
  • "Hopper Herding with Plastic Corral" Technique Card (page 5 of PDF)
  • stiff wire (optional)

Keywords

Subjects

  • Life Sciences
    • Diversity of Life
      • Animals
    • Ecology
      • Populations
  • The Nature of Science
    • The Scientific Process
      • Conducting Investigations
      • Gathering Data
      • Formulating Explanations
      • Communicating Results

Informal Categories

  • Animals
  • Games
  • Nature and Environment
  • Outdoor Activity
  • Physical Activity

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • be mobile
  • touch

Learning styles supported:

  • Involves teamwork and communication skills
  • Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other

This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

Rights:

  • All rights reserved, The Regents of the University of California, 1982