lesson
Count and compare body parts
1 · Learn
Invertebrates do not have a backbone. This is a broad description, not one small group of nearly identical animals. Insects have six legs as adults; spiders have eight. Snails and earthworms have different body structures again.
Describe what you observe carefully. A damaged specimen or an unclear image may hide a leg. An uncertain count should lead to a better observation, not a confident but unsupported label.
2 · Worked example
A clear image shows an adult animal with six jointed legs and three main body sections. These observations support an insect identification.
3 · Your turn
Why should you not classify an animal solely from a blurred image showing only five legs?
Check your answer
Other legs may be hidden or missing. Get clearer evidence and compare other features.
4 · Apply your learning
Make an observation table from labelled photographs of an insect, spider, snail and earthworm.
Adult guidance and safety
Use photographs or undisturbed observation. Wash hands after outdoor work; do not collect or touch unknown species.
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