Most fish, but not all, have scales (plastic-like flakes) that cover their skin.
- Scales vary in shape, size and structure.
- Scales provide protection to fish.
- Large scales provide more protection to a fish but restrict the movement of a fish
Materials
- construction paper
- marker
- scissors
- glue
- googley eye (optional)
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| close-up of scales |
Directions
- Fold a piece of paper down the middle (horizontally).
- Draw the top half of a fish.
- Cut out your fish.
- Cut some strips of construction paper (approx 1 inch thick).
- Use the scissors to cut curves on one side of the paper strips. These will be the scales.
- Glue the scales onto your fish by overlapping the strips of paper. Do not use glue on the curved ends to give a 3D effect.
- Add a googley eye or draw an eye with a marker.
- Continue to decorate your fish if desired.
Extension Activity:
Students can sketch a fish and label the differents structures (parts) of a fish (scales, fins, gills, eyes, mouth) and explain the function of each structure.
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