Grade 1-4

10 minutes

Examine a feather to discover the detailed structure

1. feathers
2. magnifying glass
3. scissors or blade

1. Look at the feather with the magnifying glass
2. Can you see how it holds together? (barbs)
3. Look at the shaft, then cut a feather in 2 along the shaft. Is it solid or hollow? (hollow) Why? It needs to be strong and light.