The answer is…
Porcupines are actually covered in hair as their quills ARE hair! The quills on a porcupine are actually modified hairs that have stiffened and formed pointed tips. These spines as they are also known help porcupines defend themselves against predators as their barbed quills poke through skin very easily but are difficult to remove.
What is my child learning?
In elementary school children begin to learn how to question assumptions using the scientific method. This skill prompts children to analyze facts and data and make informed conclusions. Understanding detailed differences also helps to develop children’s communication skills as they are prompted to share what they have learned and explain their conclusions in an effective manner. In this case students are asked to consider what they know and have learned about hair and apply those facts to what they know and have learned about porcupines. Using the provided picture students can analyze the image and form a conclusion about the hair on a porcupine. Choosing true or false helps the development of communication skills as children are asked to commit to an answer that supports their ideas. The answer communicates the conclusion they have formed and their commitment to their ideas. Have fun with this as a family! It might spark a fun debate.
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Extra Resources
For Adults
Read this article to learn how porcupine quills are being used to improve everyday medical practices.
For Children
Watch this video to learn more about porcupines!