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Get to Know: Insects

Elementary, Middle

Description

This well-designed outdoor activity introduces young learners to insect diversity, distribution and behavior. Working in teams of two, students are given simple collecting and observing tools and assigned two different locations to investigate and to collect and describe any specimens they uncover. After 15-20 minutes the teams share  ‘highlights’ with their classmates. Suggestions for an effective debriefing are provided

The resource offers excellent planning suggestions for teachers, instructions for the proper handling of insects during their collection and release and some great ideas for extending the lesson. Student materials include a ‘backgrounder’ that introduces basic insect anatomy and classification along with field investigation sheets for recording observations.

 

General Assessment

Recommendation of how and where to use it

This easy-to-implement activity provides a terrific opportunity for students and teachers to address science outcomes in grades 1 - 6 through outdoor, hands-on experience.

Relevant Curriculum Units

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        • Science 1: Living things have features and behaviours that help them survive in their environment
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        • Science 2: Living things have life cycles adapted to their environment
    • Grade 3
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      • Science
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        • Science 3: Living things are diverse, can be grouped, and interact in their ecosystems

Themes Addressed

Ecosystems (2)

  • Appreciating the Natural World
  • Biodiversity