Let's Learn About Insects: A Science Lesson Plan

This lesson plan suggests opening with books about insects and asking students to identify the species and  predict what the book will be about.  As the teacher reads the book, he/she should point out the stages in the life cycle of the insect. Teacher then should review the stages in a complete metamorphosis life cycle. Afterwards the students will make a life cycle poster.  Assessment is labeling the illustration. The focus of this lesson plan is complete metamorphosis with insects. An extension is to paired with The Life Cycle of a Frog: From Tadpole to Frog to include  both amphibians and insects.

Lesson Variations

Blooms taxonomy level: 
Understanding
Extension suggestions: 

Extend:

  • Continue to teach about insects by going on to habitat and diet.
  • Teach about life cycles of other animals. Some wonderful choices would include teaching about the life cycle of a frog or a crab.

 

Helpful Hints

Materials:

  • The Life Cycle of a Ladybug by Ruth Thomson or The Life Cycle of a Beetle by Molly Aloian
  • Poster board—half sheet per student
  • Crayons/markers
  • Various art materials
  • Scissors
  • Glue or glue sticks
  • Insect pictures
  • Life cycle labels for assessment
  • Construction paper

References

Contributors: