Since triops are similar in many ways to horseshoe crabs, it can be fascinating for a class to examine the differences and likenesses between these two animals. Both share physical characteristics, and the way in which the larvae of both species develop is quite similar, but there are differences too. Have students record their observations about the physical nature of both species after examining both either in real life or via pictures. Instruct students to find out more by researching topics such as average lifespan and diet to compare the two species further.
If the classroom is able to keep triops for students to observe close up, place the creatures in a transparent container or aquarium. Give each student a notebook to use to record observations and data about the triops as the animals develop. Stretch this lesson over a few weeks, asking a few students to read aloud what they’ve learned at certain stages in the triops’ development. It’s best to begin with triops eggs, so that the class can witness the triops' complete life cycle. Have students write predictions and questions in the book, and then compare these initial thoughts to what they’ve learned at the end of the project.
A number of words are associated with triops, their life cycle and behavior. In this lesson, the class learns about the meaning of these words and other situations in which they might be used. Divide the class into several small groups of students and give each a selection of unusual words related to triops. For example, one selection could include "carapace," "crustacean" and "trunk appendage." Instruct students to research these words using a dictionary and the Internet and then prepare a short presentation about the meanings of each word and its relevance to the triops.
For this lesson, prepare a large-scale illustration of a triops with its various body parts highlighted and named. Using both explanation and if possible, physical examination of the triops themselves in the classroom setting, describe the location and purpose of each body part. Before revealing what a body part does, point out where it is and asks students to guess at its function; it helps here if the class can actually examine a real-life triops. By the lesson’s end, students will be able to name various triops' body parts and their functions.