Hands On: Play Dough Insects
Objective:
Students explore Carboniferous insects and giant arthropods while connecting science to storytelling and mythology.

Materials:

• Play dough or modeling clay (multiple colors)
• Plastic knives or modeling tools (optional)
• Pictures of Carboniferous insects (dragonflies, millipedes, beetles)
  
  

Instructions for Parents:

1. Introduce the Carboniferous Insects
   • Show images of giant dragonflies (Meganeura), millipedes, and other Carboniferous bugs.
   • Discuss how high oxygen levels allowed insects to grow much bigger than today.
2. Model Your Insects
   • Invite your child to create their own Carboniferous insects using play dough.
   • Encourage imaginative variations: extra wings, long legs, or glowing parts inspired by fireflies.
     
     

Discussion Prompts
Level 1 ​

• “What makes your insect special?”
• “How could it help or play with other animals in the forest?”

Level 2 ​

• “How do your insect’s features reflect adaptations to the Carboniferous environment?”

Extension Ideas:

• Storytelling: Write a short myth or legend about your insect, connecting imagination with science.
• Compare to Modern Insects: Look at today’s dragonflies, beetles, or fireflies and note differences.