Invent an Animal

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In this outdoor activity and game, learners explore how animals adapt for survival through coloration, markings and camouflage. By inventing, designing and hiding their own animal models, and hunting for other learners' hidden animals, learners investigate how predators and prey also use shape and behavior to blend into their habitats, so they can succeessfully hunt for food or escape from being eaten.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
45 to 60 minutes
Learning Time:
45 to 60 minutes
Estimated Materials Cost:
$10 - $20 per group of students
Age Range:
Ages 6 - 14
Resource Types:
Activity, Game, Lesson/Lesson Plan, Model, Simulation
Language:
English

Materials List (per group of students)

  • vegetables (potatoes, string beans, or carrots) for "animal" bodies
  • small paintbrushes
  • sets of tempera paints (yellow, blue, red, brown, and white) in small jars or containers
  • paper cups
  • junk boxes with toothpicks, popsickle sticks, masking tape, rubber bands, cotton etc.
  • small containers of water
  • paper towels
  • scissors
  • colored gel (optional)
  • white, nontoxic latex paint
  • large paintbrush
  • 8 strips of flagging
  • twigs, leaves and other natural materials found on site

Keywords

Subjects

  • Life Sciences
    • Diversity of Life
      • Animals
    • Ecology
      • Ecosystems
      • Populations
    • Evolution
      • Evidence for Evolution
  • The Nature of Science
    • The Scientific Process
      • Asking Questions
      • Conducting Investigations
      • Communicating Results
  • The Nature of Technology
    • The Design Process
      • Invention and Innovation

Informal Categories

  • Arts and Crafts
  • Games
  • Nature and Environment
  • Outdoor Activity
  • Physical Activity

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • see color
  • 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, 1979