Stereoscopic Vision
California Science Standards: Life Science--3rd grade 3a; Investigation and Experimentation--2nd grade 4a; 4th grade 6c
Objective
To discover the role of stereoscopic vision in the predator/prey relationship.
Materials
Nerf or other small soft balls, eye patches.Directions
Children work in pairs. Each child covers one eye. They stand 6-8 feet apart and play catch. Repeat with both eyes open. Which way is easier?Notes
Eyes set close together at the front of the head provide for stereoscopic vision (both eyes working together). This arrangement allows for greater depth perception --ideal for predators who must catch their prey. Eyes positioned more to the sides of the head allow for a broader range of vision-useful for seeing the approach of predators.When examining fossils, the position of the eye orbits (openings) provides clues as to whether the animal was a predator or a prey.
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