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Thumb Fun
This week's experiment is one that has been around for a
long time, but it is still a fun one. Look at your thumb. Amazing, isn't it?
Not impressed? Just wait.
You will need:
Unless you injure your thumb, you tend to take it for
granted. We are going to take a look at how very special and important your
thumbs are. What makes them so special? Your thumbs are different from those
of most animals. You have opposable thumbs. What does that mean? It means
that your thumb can press directly against your other fingers, fingerprint
against fingerprint. Try pressing the end of your first finger against your
thumb. Then try doing the same thing with your first finger and your second
finger. Doesn't work the same, does it? You can press them together side to
side, but not like you did with your thumb.
Let's see how important this really is. Below is a list
of activities for you to try. They are all ordinary, everyday type things that
are easy to do.
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Untie your shoe, and take it off.
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Put your shoe back on, and tie it.
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Write your name and address on a piece of paper.
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Put a scoop of ice cream into a bowl and then eat it
with a spoon.
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Pick up 5 coins off the floor.
OK, all of that was easy. Now let's try it without
your thumbs. To do that, get someone to use some tape to attach your thumbs
to your first fingers. Just a little tape around the top of your thumb and the
base of your first finger should do the trick. Now, try going through the
activities again.
Not as easy this time, was it. Without an opposable
thumb, it is hard to hold and manipulate small objects. You can't get a good
grip on things. For such a simple part of your body, thumbs sure are useful.
Have a wonderful week.
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