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.
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.
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