Judy Sakanari is a parasitologist working in San Francisco. Learn more about her life and work by viewing the video and exploring the CD–ROM Five activities in this kit include: Classy Parasites, Model Parasites, Pet Parasite Detective, Parasite Sleuth, and Traveling Tapeworm. Students learn about classification during Classy Parasites. In Model Parasites, students make a clay model ascaris worm and then dissect the worm to observe its organs and check their predictions. Students learn what to look for in healthy pets by keeping them ectoparasite-free. They will also draw ticks and fleas in Pet Parasite Detective. Groups of students solve a parasite mystery and determine which parasite causes the main character to become ill in Parasite Sleuth. Finally, in the Traveling Tapeworm, students learn more about tapeworms and the stages of the life cycle.

Instructional Materials

This kit includes a video, CD-ROM, and activity book. In addition a kit containing non-consumable materials to implement the five activities is available. This portion of the kit includes (8) Play-Doh containers, (28) Dissecting needles, (6) plastic flea combs, (4) Pipets, Vial of Fleas, Vial of Ticks, (14) Magnifying lenses. The kit must be returned in the condition in which it was received. If not, the replacement cost is $83.00.

Illinois State Goals & Learning Standards

01A. Apply word analysis and vocabulary skills to comprehend selections.

01C. Comprehend a broad range of reading materials.

03A. Use correct grammar, spelling, puctuation, capitalization and structure.

03C. Communicate ideas in writing to accomplish a variety of purposes.

04A. Listen effectively in formal and informal situations.

04B. Speak effectively using language appropriate to the situation and audience.

05C. Apply acquired information, concepts and ideas to communicate in a variety of formats.

11A. Know and apply the concepts, principles and processes of scientific inquiry

12A. Know and apply concepts that explain how living things function, adapt and change

12B. Know and apply concepts that describe how living things interact with each other and with their environment

13A. Know and apply the accepted practices of sciences

13B. Know and apply concepts that describe the interaction between science, technology, and society