Spiders create some of the strongest structures in the world: their webs. Twists, turns and tangles, spiders' webs are where they sleep, where they hunt and where they hide. Librarian Katie from the Avalon Branch thinks spiders are amazing. Enjoy her recommended stories and try some of these activities to create your own spider webs!
Have you ever wondered where the spider's web comes from? Or how something so small can be so sticky? How Do Spiders Make Webs? is the book to find out all about those tricky, sticky webs!
Read more about why Spiders Weave Webs. You can also learn about parts of a spider's body, what they eat and new ways scientists are trying to use spider silk.
Older readers will want to explore Stronger Than Steel, from the Scientists in the Field series. Learn about scientist Randy Lewis and his work to create artificial spider silk that can be used to help people in fascinating ways.
When discussing spiderwebs, we can't forget Charlotte, the spider who befriends Wilbur the pig and saves his life with her "terrific" webs in E.B. White's classic Charlotte's Web. Great as a family read-aloud while learning about spiders!
What happens if the spider doesn't want to eat the flies he catches? Watch this silly story, The Very Hungry Spider, to find out!
Create a spider web maze out of crepe paper, yarn or whatever you have handy! Can you weave your way through, or will you get caught like a fly?
What makes the strongest spider web? Floss? Spaghetti? Make your own webs and test them to see which can hold the most weight.
Reflect on Your Learning
- Go for a walk and see if you can find any spider webs. Why do you think some spiders build their webs in trees vs. on the ground?
- What shapes do you think might make a spider’s web stronger or harder to fly through?
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