Learning Science with Curiosity About Moonrats

Discover what smells funkier than a moonrat

Matthew Murrie

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An illustration of a moonrat on a branch.
Image of a moonrat from The Screaming Hairy Armadillo

Need to get some students stoked for science?

Want to create greater curiosity for learning about science, biology, nature, conservation, and collaboration?

From a 15 minute start, to full lessons and activities to extend the learning, below is your Curiosity-Based Thinking approach to turning a moonrat into learning experience that doesn’t stink.

15 Minute Start

Spark Curiosity: What do you think a “moonrat” looks like and where does it live? Then show a picture of a moonrat to stimulate discussion.

Share the facts: Mention how moonrats are small, nocturnal mammals that live in Southeast Asia, with a unique pungent smell used for defense.

Collaborative Task: Break students into small groups and ask them to come up with a list of 3 adaptations the moonrat might have to survive in its environment. Examples might include nocturnality (active at night), scent for self-defense, and long noses for finding food.

Discussion: After 5 minutes, each group shares their ideas, and you briefly introduce real adaptations.

15-Minute Classroom Lesson #1

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Matthew Murrie

Author of The Book of What If…?, Founder of What If Curiosity, and Creator of Curiosity-Based Thinking and Curiosity-Based Learning, turning ideas into actions.