Study Life Cycles with Butterflies

This lesson plan provides information and vocabulary associated with the life cycle of a butterfly.  It tells how to set up a butterfly habitat and includes a resource where caterpillars can be purchased.  It also includes information for literature and mathematics connections. Teachers can use this lesson plan to introduce life cycle vocabulary while preparing to set up butterfly habitats so students can observe changes in the life of a butterfly.  It includes how to find caterpillars or a resource in which to purchase caterpillars and step-by-step directions for setting up a habitat.  Additional information is provided for using data as they observe and measure growth of caterpillars and keep a diary of what is observed in the habitats. Teachers can assess understanding using the observations, diary, graphs and knowledge of life cycles.  Extension ideas and information on trade-books, software, and a video is also included.

Weblink address (URL): 
Study Life Cycles with Butterflies

Lesson Variations

Blooms taxonomy level: 
Applying
Extension suggestions: 

Circle of Life

Discuss with students how the butterfly develops through four stages of metamorphosis — egg, larva (caterpillar), pupa (chrysalis), and adult (butterfly). The adult barely resembles the larval stage in appearance or behavior. This is known as a complete metamorphosis.

Invite students to compare the butterflies' growth and changes with their own growth and development. Ask them to bring in pictures of themselves as infants and toddlers. Using these photos and their caterpillar charts and diaries, students can create two circles of life — one for the butterfly and one for themselves. To make a circle of life, each student will need two sheets of white construction paper, a file folder, and a brass paper fastener. Here's how to assemble the circles.

  1. Glue two sheets of paper together along one edge. Mark and cut out a 1-inch window from the top sheet.
  2. Cut out a circle from the file folder. The diameter of the circle should just about match the width of the paper. Poke a small hole through the center of the circle.
  3. Have students paste their photos or caterpillar/butterfly drawings onto the circle, as shown.
  4. Insert the circle between the sheets of paper, leaving one edge of the circle — which will now function as the wheel — exposed. Adjust so that each picture shows up through the window when you turn the wheel.
  5. Using the paper fastener, fasten together the wheel and the paper, then glue the paper edges, leaving only the section with the wheel edge open.
  6. Students can share their circles with each other, narrating the changes seen through the window.
  7. Students can also use photographs of parents, grandparents, and so on to create more life-cycle wheels. Invite students to brainstorm what other kinds of life cycles they can depict.

References

Contributors: 
Diane Vaughn
Originator: 
Ayers Institute for Learning & Innovation