We’re All Thumbs
Directions:
1. Have your partner tape up your entire writing hand with masking tape. The other hand should have just the thumb taped up.
2. Use a spoon to pick up the wrapped candy.
3. Unwrap the candy over the paper plate. (yes, you may eat it)
4. Try to pick up a book off of the floor, place it on the desk and turn to page 594.
5. Write your name on the top of your paper.
6. Try to button or unbutton one button…or zip and unzip a zipper…unclasp and clasp a necklace or watch.
7. Try to untie and tie your shoelaces (or someone else’s).
8. Try to take the tape off of your hands.
9. Switch places with your partner.
Answer the following questions on a piece of paper. Use complete sentences.
1. Define Adaptation. The definition is on p. 594 in the blue book.
2. How do thumbs help humans survive? List 5 everyday activities that would be impossible without the thumb.
3. How are other animals’ adaptations similar to the human thumb?
4. How do the human adaptations differ from other animals?
5. How do feet compare to hands?
6. How do animals without thumbs pick up objects?
7. If a dog had human-like thumbs attached to its front paws, how would this affect the dog’s life?