Simple Animals: What Are Simple Animals?

Upon viewing the Simple Animals video series, students will be able to do the following: Differentiate between and provide examples of vertebrate and invertebrate animals. Describe the basic body parts of a sponge (porifera). Explain the basic structures of a cnidarian, such as a hydra or sea anemone. Describe some of the characteristics of flatworms (platyhelminthes), such as their flattened, elongated body; more advanced nervous system; and bilateral symmetry. Explain that nematodes are worms that possess a head, tail, and one-way digestive system. Understand that segmented worms (annelids) have a body made up of many segments and a closed circulatory system. Describe basic functions of mollusks, and give examples of mollusks people commonly eat. Cite some examples of arthropods that live near the school. Explain the characteristics common to most arthropods, including a segmented body, an exoskeleton, and jointed appendages. Understand that there are at least a million different kinds of arthropods on the planet. List examples of echinoderms, such as sea stars, starfish, sand dollars, sea cucumbers, and sea urchins. Describe some basic features of echinoderms, including radial symmetry, an internal skeleton, and a water vascular system. Compare and contrast characteristics of different types of simple animals.