Fun with Spiders Classroom Activities
Which Web?
Science/Art While teaching a unit on spiders, have students research different kinds of spider webs and how spiders use them. Then invite the children to use black paper and white yarn to make demonstrations of spiral, triangle, tangled and funnel webs. Students can then make a replica of the proper kind of spider to place in each web or download photographs of the appropriate spiders during online research.
Super Silky Spiders
Science/Writing/Reading Read the following poem with your students, then plan and carry out the spider study described below.
Spider's Web
by Martin Shaw
Glistening strands of silken thread,
Sway gently in the breeze,
Attracting all the curious,
the flies, the moths, the bees.
The crafty spider sits close by,
While guests come in to call,
Yet, no one ever gets to leave,
No one, no one at all.
Spider Tank
Science/Writing Carefully capture some spiders and put them in a fish tank with plants and a couple of flies. Cover the top with plastic wrap and punch a few air holes in it. Then have students watch as the spiders create their webs. Students can also add flies or moths. Ask students keep a written log describing the daily changes. Students can later discuss what they observed and learned. Once you have completed the activity release the spiders and other creatures back to nature.
Spider and Insect Detectives
This lesson will introduce students to the differences between a spider and an insect. The students will participate in a collaborative group activity and complete individual Venn diagrams for assessment.
Spy on a Spider
At the end of this lesson, students will be able to name and describe the distinguishing features of each group of arthropods, especially spiders and insects. They will also be able to describe some of the places where spiders live.
Spooky Spiders and Wacky Webs
Students will learn how to identify a spider according to body parts and they will also be able to classify spiders according to likenesses and differences. Students will have an understanding of the different kinds of spider habitats and eating habits. Finally, they will learn about the potential harm of local poisonous spiders.
