Insect Mashups is similar to the activity “Three Part Monster”. This is a playful insect drawing activity that reviews the three insect body segments (head, thorax, and abdomen) through drawing and teamwork.
Before we dive in: If you’re an educator planning to use this game to teach head-thorax-abdomen, I’ve got something you will love. Printable directions for this activity are included in my Insects Unit – a complete set of activities and printables for teaching insects (plus you’ll support my blog with your purchase! ❤️)
Materials
This is a simple activity that can be done with minimal supplies. All you need is:
- Paper
- Drawing supplies
- Creativity!
Directions
Here’s how to play Insect Mashups:
- Students will play this game in groups of three.
- Before starting, instructors should introduce insect anatomy, emphasizing the three main body segments: head, thorax, and abdomen.
- Fold a paper to divide it into 3 equal sections.
- On the top section, the first student draws an insect’s head. Remember to include the antennae, mouthpart, and eyes!
- The first student will fold the top section back, so that the head is hidden.
- Tip: Leave the bottom of the neck visible below the crease, so that the next student knows where to start drawing the thorax.
- Without looking at the head, the second student draws an insect’s thorax. Remember, the six legs and wings (if any) attach to the thorax – so draw those here too!
- The second student will fold the middle section back, so that the head and thorax are hidden.
- Tip: Leave the bottom of the thorax visible below the crease, so that the next student knows where to start drawing the abdomen.
- The third student draws an insect’s abdomen. Does it have a stinger? Stripes? Does the abdomen light up like a firefly? Be creative!
- Each group should unfold their paper together to reveal the unique insect they created as a team.
Find this activity and more in my complete Insects Unit
There’s no need to scramble to put together the perfect insects lesson – I’ve already created it for you! This set includes all the printable materials you need for studying insects.
Explore more lessons from Wild Earth Lab:
If you enjoyed this post, I know you will love trying my other printable science and nature units in your classroom too!
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