This is our catalog of courses. We will occasionally adjust the course listing to reflect the addition of new courses and the retirement of others.
Did you know that most of the animals on earth are invertebrates—creatures without a backbone? From sponges to sea urchins, you will take a tour of these spineless creatures, learning how they develop, eat, and survive in a world dominated by vertebrates.
Total classes: 13
Prerequisite: None
Suggested grade level: 6th to 8th grade. Interested high school students are also welcomed to join us.
Suggested credit: 1 full semester Life Science
Description
The invertebrates are everywhere! Let’s find out more about animals without backbones. We will discuss the features and habits of the major phyla.
Outline
Class 1: Introduction to classification of invertebrates
Class 2: Porifera (sponges)
Class 3: Ctenophores and Cnidarians (jellies)
Class 4: Platyhelminthes (flatworms)
Class 5: Nematodes (worms)
Class 6: Annelids (segmented worms)
Class 7: Bryozoans, Mollusks (bivalves)
Class 8: More mollusks (snails and cephalopods)
Class 9: Arthropods part 1
Class 10: Arthropods part 2
Class 11: Arthropods part 3
Class 12: Echinoderms
Class 13: A few more phyla, and identification game!
Materials and Homework
Course Materials:
*East coast students: Peterson’s Guide to Atlantic Seashore (https://amzn.to/3t1lgra)
*West Coast students: Audubon (https://amzn.to/3v8fOnY – not my favorite, but includes Pacific);
*Inland (fresh water) students: A Guide to Common Freshwater Invertebrates of North America (https://amzn.to/2MWGhno)
*NB: You may substitute local/regional field guides as you see fit, or mix and match salt or freshwater guides.
Homework: Weekly automated quizzes for immediate feedback, occasional class presentations, and some reading. Expect to spend approximately one to two hours per week outside of class.
