What is a Protozoa?
Protozoa are single-celled organisms that are most likely found in stagnant water. Look for protozoa close to the edge of ponds.
The word “protozoa” means first animals. Even young children can learn about protozoa.
The following material was provided by Amida, a homeschooling mom.
The activities for the paramecium and euglena models shown come from Janice VanCleave’s Play and Find Out About Nature. Activities in this book are designed for young children, but can be adapted for older kids.
“When I think of science for the preschooler crowd, “protozoa” isn’t exactly a word that pops into mind. But after reviewing Janice Van
Cleave’s Play and Find Out about Nature, I thought, why not? As an art project, it’s definitely doable. The above paramecium was made by tracing and cutting out the soles of LS’s and her dad’s shoes. The smaller green outline (representing the body) was glued on top of the larger white one, which was cut up to form the cilia (hair-like structures used to move the organism). A glob of glitter in the center became the nucleus (the control center of the organism). LS was excited with the project.”
Comments from L.S. about paramecium:
“Paramecium are so silly because they look like feet!”
“They use their hair to move.” ”
They live in pond water.”
“You need a microscope to see it.”
S. about euglena:“They look like pears.”
“The green circles make food.”
Comments from JaniceNote: What is called the euglena’s tail is called a flagellum. The euglena propels itself forward by the whirling motion of the flagellum.