Cycles of Life

Students learn about metamorphosis by watching one or more insects change from egg or larva to pupa to adult. They record the process and make a life cycle picture. There is a downloadable observation sheet available. 

Weblink address (URL): 
Cycles of Life

Standards & Objectives

Learning objectives: 

Students will:

  • Observe the eating habits of insect larva.
  • Compare and contrast the larva and adult insect.
  • Record the insect's metamorphosis.
  • Sequence the life cycle of an insect.
Essential and guiding questions: 

Did students notice all stages of the life cycle in their observation journal?

What would you do differently?

Lesson Variations

Blooms taxonomy level: 
Applying
Extension suggestions: 

Dramatize the four stages of the insect metamorphosis with dramatic play or a Readers Theater script.

Discuss other life cycles in nature.

Helpful Hints

Note you must plan a head to order the larvae prior to teaching this lesson!

References

Contributors: 
Sarah Armstrong
Originator: 
Ayers Institute for Learning & Innovation