5
A cactus
Textbook pp. 14–15
GoalMake a cactus in a pot from coloured paper and learn what cacti are like.
New words
cactus · kaktusspine · tikandesert · sahroflowerpot · gul solingan idish
Explanation
A cactus grows in the desert. When it rains, it soaks up water with its roots and stores it in its body, so it can live a long time without water. Its spines protect it from being eaten by animals. To make a paper cactus we cut each part separately and then join them.
Worked examples
A long green oval = the main body, two small ovals = arms, a brown trapezoid = the pot.
Class activity
You need: green, brown and pink paper, scissors, glue, black felt-tip pen, card. Steps: 1) Cut one long green oval and two small ovals. 2) Glue the small ovals on the sides of the big one as arms. 3) Cut a pot from brown paper and glue the bottom of the cactus into it. 4) Draw small spine marks with the black pen and add a pink flower on top. Safety: make the spines only with a pen, never with real pins or needles.
Practice
1
Where does a cactus grow?
In the desert
2
Where does a cactus store water?
In its body (stem)
3
What are the spines for?
To protect it from animals