Eek! There's a Tarantula
in the Classroom!?

(This WebQuest was created by Maria E. Sanchez)

Introduction:

Is it possible to have a tarantula as a classroom pet? Have you ever seen a tarantula? Have you ever heard of anyone having a pet tarantula? Do you think a tarantula would make a scary pet or a good pet?

 

Let's explore the world of tarantulas! 

Task:

This lesson will give us the chance to become experts on tarantulas, so that we can decide if a tarantula would make a good pet. Our mission is to become tarantula detectives and find the answers to many questions about tarantulas.

While doing our detective work we may think of other questions about tarantulas that we may need to know. A good detective will always think of other questions to solve a hidden mystery. So be sure to think of other things you want to learn about tarantulas while you are doing your research.

Lets find the answers to some questions about tarantulas!

• Are tarantulas dangerous to humans?
• Can a tarantula be a pet?
• What does a tarantula look like?
• How do we take care of a pet tarantula?

Process:

1. Read these facts about tarantulas.
2. Look at pictures of tarantulas.
3. Learn how to care for your pet tarantula.
4. Where do tarantulas live?
5. What do tarantulas eat?
6. Read a myth and look at some art about tarantulas and other spiders.
7. Use the other resources in your classroom, such as; encyclopedias, books, articles and videos to help you discover more interesting information about tarantulas.
8. Keep notes of important information about tarantulas while you do you research.  Scientists call these field notes.  Your field notes will be important when you are deciding whether a tarantula would be a good classroom pet.
9. Write a poem, story, or song about a tarantula and draw a picture of one.
10. From the information you have learned by becoming a tarantula detective, decide if a tarantula would make a good classroom pet. Get into groups and discuss the answers to the questions that were asked about tarantulas. Make a group presentation to the class about why you think you should or should not have a tarantula as a classroom pet.

Evaluation:

A completed webquest will answer the following questions:

• Did you learn something new about tarantulas to help us decide if a tarantula would be a good pet?
• Did you keep accurate field notes to help make an informed decision?
• Did you discuss with my group and come to a conclusion about having a tarantula as a pet?

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Last updated on 08/02/06