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Adaptedfrom“SquidDissection:FromPentoInk,”NaturalHistoryMuseumofLosAngelesCounty
Squid Dissection: From Pen to Ink
Through squid dissection, students will examine some of the unique features which have allowed
squid to adapt and thrive in Southern California waters and throughout the world. This beginning
dissection lesson will allow students to identify internal and external anatomy of the squid and
the various functions of its organs.
Being careful not to be wasteful, the dissection can end with a Calamari Cook-Off!
Activity time: 40-90 minutes
Materials for dissection:
fresh or frozen whole squid (Loligo opalescens) available at a fish market or grocery
clean dissection scissors or basic student scissors
paper plates
paper towels
newspapers
worksheets
From Pen to Ink: Squid: External Anatomy
From Pen to Ink: Squid: External Anatomy (student worksheet)
From Pen to Ink: Squid: Internal Anatomy
From Pen to Ink: Squid: Internal Anatomy (student worksheet)
Introduction
One of the main objectives of this activity is to introduce students to dissection. Dissection is an
important part of science discovery that can help us better understand how life works. It is
important for students to see the role that dissection plays and develop a sense of responsibility
and respect for the animal that they are using as a learning tool.
After the students finish their dissection, the impact of squid in their daily lives should be
discussed. Squid are an important food item to many people throughout the world. With this in
mind, the students have the opportunity to prepare and cook their squid at the end of the lesson.
Procedure
1. Begin the activity by asking students what they know about squid. (You may wish to refer to
the background discussion “About Squid.”) Encourage questions, possibly making a list on the
board that you may be able to answer as you continue through the dissections. Possible
questions (relating to anatomy) might include:
• How does it eat? What does it eat?
• How does it swim? How does it steer?
• How does it protect itself?
• Is it male or female? How can you tell?
2. Using one squid for demonstration, and the diagram of external anatomy (attached), begin to
discuss the external anatomy and relate the features to the way the squid functions in its marine
environment. Important features include the arms and tentacles, for hunting and mobility, the
