Blue-Ringed Octopus

Since our elementary districtwide cultural focas area this year is Australia, I couldn't help but introduce classes to some of the unique wildlife found in Australia.  After studying Australian Aboriginal artwork and creating our Kangaroo dot paintings, we dove into the ocean for a closer look at this particularly unique creature! Fourth graders learned about the blue-ringed octopus.

The blue-ringed octopus is found along the southern coast of Australia.  While it is about the size of a golf ball it is one of the most deadly creatures for humans. The poison is produced by bacteria that live in the saliva of the octopus. Unlike other octopus, this octopus has blue rings that light up when it is agitated.   Here is a link if you want to read more!

Learning Goals: I can...
- Tell about the blue-ringed octopus (where is it found and what makes it different?)
- Use good craftsmanship to create smooth edges with paint (keep your paintbrush loaded)
- Show form using paint (add shadows to make it look more 3D)
- Use found objects to print bubbles (marker caps)