BSC 307 “Bugs for Kids” Lesson Plan Form
Title:
Lubber Grasshopper Defense Mechanisms
Grade Level:
7th Grade
Objectives:
After



completing this activity, the student will be able to:
demonstrate the proper handling of lab animals.
describe the basic characteristics of a lubber grasshopper.
predict defense mechanisms used based on observations about the
grasshopper.
 recognize the defensive mechanisms used by lubber grasshoppers.
Illinois State Learning Standards:
Stage F.11B.3. Collect and record data accurately using consistent metric
measuring and recording techniques with necessary precision, or documenting
data from collecting instruments accurately in selected format.
Stage G.12A.2. Apply scientific inquiries or technological designs to examine
macro- and micro-evolution in organisms, comparing and assessing changes in
the features or forms of organisms over broad time periods to their adaptive
functions and competitive advantages, describing how natural selection accounts
for diversity of species over many generations.
Activity Description:
As the students enter the classroom, I will be holding a lubber grasshopper in my
hand (students can observe the grasshopper as the class discussion occurs so
they will be more comfortable about touching one by the time they get to their
lab station). This activity will begin with a 10 minute class discussion about how
some animals protect themselves. I will ask questions that allow me to analyze
the students’ background knowledge on the subject and allow the students to
begin thinking about the various adaptations animals have to protect themselves.
Also, I will talk about the importance of handling the lab animals properly and
the importance of washing hands after handling them. Next, the students will
move to their lab station which is set up with a grasshopper and lab worksheet
per person. The students will work for 30 minutes with the grasshoppers making
observations and hypothesizing what the defense mechanisms are. Then, a
worksheet specifying the defense characteristics actually used will be handed
out, and the last 10 minutes will be used allowing students to reevaluate their
observations and conclusions while completing appropriate questions.
Assessment Strategies:
I will observe the students as they are working in pairs at the lab stations. As
long as the students are engaged in the activity, they will receive 5 points for the
day. The worksheets will be graded for completion on certain questions and
correctness on others for a total of 35 points.
Rationale:
This activity is important because it allows students to work hands-on with a lab
animal which will introduce them to proper handling of animals in a lab setting.
This activity lets the students develop observation skills and evaluate how well
the observations made were. Most importantly, this lab introduces the science
content of the defensive mechanisms of lubbers as an introduction to
adaptations that have evolved in animals throughout time.
Resources:
http://entomology.ifas.ufl.edu/creatures/orn/lubber.htm
http://www.aos.org/AM/Template.cfm?Section=pests_and_diseases&CONTENTI
D=5652&TEMPLATE=/CM/ContentDisplay.cfm
* Please attach any and all handouts/worksheets to this lesson plan
Lubber Grasshopper Defense Mechanisms
Name:__________________________
Date:_________
Period:_________
In the lab activity, you and your partner are each going to be given a Lubber
Grasshopper. Based on the previous class discussion and your previous
knowledge about animal’s defense mechanisms, you are going to observe the
grasshopper and see what kind of adaptations you think the grasshopper has to
protect itself!
Spend time observing the following characteristics:
What color is
it? Be specific.
What size is it?
How does it
move? and
How often?
How does it or
anything it
expels smell?
(smell like a
scientist!)
What sounds
does it make?
Do you think it
tastes good to
other animals?
(DO NOT
TASTE GRASSHOPPER!)
Based on your observations in the above chart, on the back of this paper, predict
what you believe to be the defense mechanisms used by the lubber grasshopper
(at least 3). Also include HOW they protect the grasshopper.
Lubber Grasshopper Defense Mechanisms
Name:__________________________
Date:_________
Period:_________
Here is an explanation of the defense mechanisms employed by the lubber
grasshopper. After reading this worksheet, you and your partner will need to
each answer the questions at the end.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The bright color pattern of the lubber grasshopper is used as a warning to
predators that it is toxic. This is called aposematic coloring.
 The toxic substances that are ingested when the lubber is eaten results in
some small mammals vomiting. These grasshoppers are not toxic enough
to hurt humans, although I do NOT recommend eating one.
 The foamy spray that is released from the thoracic region of the lubber
grasshopper is used as an irritant.
 The loud hissing noise that occurs when the foamy spray is being released
is scary to approaching predators.
 The regurgitate of sticky, dark brown fluid that is commonly referred to as
“tobacco spit” contains recently ingested plant materials and some toxic
substances. This is mostly a threat to humans because it can stain
clothing!
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Answer the following questions:
What are two animals that use defense mechanisms as a way to protect
themselves? What are the mechanisms used by these animals?
What are two things that MUST be done when working with animals in a lab
setting?
What characteristics did you predict were used by the lubber grasshopper as
defense mechanisms?
Were your predictions correct?
What could have been done to make your observations and predictions more
accurate?
Name two other organisms that use aposematic coloring as a defense
mechansism.