What do we know about vertebrate and invertebrate animals? - Presentation

Animals are broadly categorized into vertebrates and invertebrates. Vertebrates are those with a backbone, comprising five main groups: mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fish. Each group has distinct characteristics that set them apart. For example, mammals are warm-blooded, have the ability to grow hair or fur, and females produce milk to feed their young. Birds, on the other hand, are also warm-blooded but are recognized by their feathers, two wings, and the fact that they lay eggs. Students are encouraged to explore these classifications by creating charts and 'top trump' cards that showcase the unique features of each vertebrate group.

In contrast, invertebrates, which make up around 97% of all animal species, do not possess a backbone. This vast group includes arthropods, annelids, molluscs, echinoderms, cnidarians, and sponges, with arthropods alone having over a million species. Arthropods are characterized by their exoskeletons, segmented bodies, and jointed limbs, and can be further divided into insects, arachnids, myriapods, and crustaceans. Molluscs typically have soft bodies, often with a shell, and use a muscular foot or tentacles for movement. Other invertebrates such as echinoderms are marine animals with radial symmetry, while cnidarians are known for their stinging cells. Sponges, interestingly, are sessile animals that attach themselves to the seabed and are distinct in not producing their own food. Students are tasked with researching and documenting invertebrates, particularly those found in their local environment, through the creation of informative cards placed near the habitats of these creatures.