Introduction

Learn how several species of house spiders have adapted to living with humans, and find out what strategies these house spiders use to ensure survival.

Students are introduced to house spiders. Arachnids have many adaptations that help them survive in a variety of habitats.

Length: 10:02 Grade level: 4-7

Teaching Objectives

The "Tiny Creatures: House Spiders!" video program and curriculum guide provide opportunities for students to learn:

1. About spider adaptations, including sensitive hairs, venom and ability to walk on smooth surfaces and move quickly.
2. How spider webs are created.
3. How interaction with humans can help and harm spiders.

Print Resources

About Spiders:

Chinery, Michael. Spiders. Whittet Books, 1993.

Dewey, Jennifer Owings. Spiders Near and Far. Dutton Children's Books, 1993.

Preston-Mafham, Rod and Ken Preston-Mafham. Spiders of the World. Blandford, 1993.

Web Resources

• Enchanted Learning: Label a Spider
  
• Anansi WebSide Stories
  
• University of California Pest Management Guidelines About Spiders
  
• University of Arizona Spider Information: U of A Spider Information Sheet
  
• Center for Insect Science Education Outreach: Keeping Spiders in the Classroom
  
• Oregon Field Guide: "House Spiders"
  
• Ohio State University: Spiders In and Around the House -- Introduction
  

Glossary

arachnid: an arthropod with four pairs of walking legs

arthropod: invertebrate with a jointed body

entomologist: scientist who studies insects

invertebrate: animal without a backbone

juvenile: immature animal

predator: animal that hunts and eats other animals

prey: animal that is hunted or eaten by other animals

secrete: to give off

species: group of living things that are the same in many ways

spinneret: organ for producing threads of silk

toxin: poisonous substance

venom: poisonous matter secreted by an animal

web: network of silken thread

Activities