Grasshopper dissection and lunch

and, of course, I forgot to take pictures. Of the 2 girls and 3 boys, only one boy was willing to actually do the dissection. One of the girls thought she would dissect but the reality was too disgusting. I did the cutting of their grasshopper and the other boy eviscerated his specimen. It was possible to see much of the GI tract and the eggs, spiracles and tubules and Malpighian tubules. I think they enjoyed it somewhat but I always wonder if they learned anything.

I used these resources for preview
http://www.sparta.k12.il.us/SID/Bugs/grasshopperanatomy.htm

and I adapted my instructions from this and other sources.
http://www.smithlifescience.com/GrasshopperDissection2.htm

I printed the instructions and anatomy pictures and then laminated them. That way I can re-use them after an antiseptic wipe-down.

Then we went off to lunch. And AGAIN, we found our original destination was a restaurant that had recently closed. That makes 4 of our favorite, or at least common, dining choices to go out of business. Is this a comment on the local economic condition? Or is the restaurant business unusually prone to failure? Probably both.

One of the moms asked me if I was interested in doing labs with younger kids. I don't remember if she was specifically talking about biology or science in general. She was speaking of Noach's age group, 10 -12, maybe 9. I have to think about that. Physics and chemistry are easier to entertain younger kids than biology.

It has appeal, I must admit. But sometimes I find myself really dreading lab, especially the preparation. Younger kids also mean more parents and they get in the way. My kitchen will only accommodate a few people. Something to think about. PRM