Lesson Summary Students observe and draw the silk threads spun by a caterpillar.  Students understand how a caterpillar uses silk.  Students are asked to draw and label a diagram of what they see and write about how the caterpillar makes its silk and uses it. Teacher Background The caterpillar produces liquid protein from spinnerets in the mouth area that becomes solid fiber.  It moves or swings its head from side to side in a rhythmic motion, to make and attach this silk.  This silk gives the caterpillar a place to move and anchor itself at various times.  In nature, the silk is “knitted” together to create a little tent for shelter for the caterpillar. Set-up/Management Tips Plan to teach this lesson during the second week of the caterpillars’ arrival. Be certain there is silk to observe for this lesson in some of the students’ cups. Those students who do not have silk in their cups may share with a partner who does. Teachers should decide which type of flight cage they will use.  The manual gives many suggestions for cages, which can be built, or you can use the “cages” included in the kit.  Literacy Support There are currently no VAST Mediagraphies listed for this unit.  Scientific Vocabulary The following words are key vocabulary words that will be introduced in this lesson and reinforced throughout the unit: upper lip jaw silk spinneret lower lip silk button