On Animal And Human Biology

'Gerbil' Jones, the fearless adventurer, and his niece, the plucky Georgie Lionheart set off for the jungle to find a mysterious creature. But why do Sir Jasper Queerfish and Lady Augusta Windpipe want to come along? And what did 'Gerbil' see in the bushes? All is finally revealed in The Missing Link. Based on Attainment Target 2 of the National Curriculum for Science, The Missing Link is a rollicking good jungle adventure!A pith-helmet musical comedy with mystery, mayhem and scientific discovery.

Keystage 1: 5-8 years (50 mins approx.) We learn that although all creatures eat, grow, breathe, move, they can be grouped according to obvious features. We discover how the skeleton fits together and name the external parts. We see that in the animal kingdom creatures have adapted to their particular environment and that the need for food, water and the right environmental conditions are necessary for life. We introduce the five senses and discuss how to put together a balanced diet.

Keystage 2: 8-13 years (1 hour approx.) As above, and in addition we discover how the circulatory system works and explore how the human body moves. We explore in greater depth the classification of animals introducing the five main animal groups of vertebrates. We look at how some species adapt to their environment and a basic idea of Darwin's theory of evolution is discussed. The components of a balanced diet is examined in greater detail

Teachers' Notes, which give a more in-depth rundown of The Missing Link's science content are provided with each booking. To view online please click for the Key Stage 1 Teachers' Notes and here for the Key Stage 2 notes.

Running Time: Approximately fifty-five minutes for Keystage 1 and one hour for Keystage 2. In addition the actors will take questions at the end of the show.

Requirements: We will need an area 15' x 15' and 8' in height and access to a domestic power supply. We need forty-five minutes before and thirty minutes after each show to set-up and dismantle the scenery and equipment.