Summary Look closely at feathers to understand their function. Science content Biology: Features, Adaptations of Living Things (K, 1, 3, 7) Lessons activity is in Chickens, eggs and feathers Materials feather magnifiers and/or microscope drawing materials and paper Procedure Gently pull the barbs of a feather apart, then stroke them back together again. Brainstorm how they might be constructed to be able to hold together again. Look closely at feathers under the magnifier and microscope. Find the interlocking barbules along the barbs. Discuss the function of different kinds of feathers: for waterproofing, insulation etc. Grades taught Gr 4
