INSECTS

INSECTS

Grade Levels

This unit was developed as an introduction to the world of insects. Although insects may be covered in greater depth in these grades, this unit is intended only to introduce children to insects in order for them to learn about

Chosen Subject Matter/Theme

As mentioned earlier, this unit covers an introduction to Insects are explored through reading of children's literature, classifying insects versus non-insects, drawing and painting various insects, and learning how to clap to certain rhythms while reciting insect names.

Broad Goals of the Unit

The children will be able to explore insects in many fun ways. They will learn about insects in four subject areas: Language Arts, Science, Art, and Music. For Language Arts, the children will read stories with insects as main characters, then do a writing activity based on the story they read. For Science, the children will brainstorm animals they think might be insects then later examine actual specimens of insects versus non-insects. For Art, the children will use their imagination and creativity to paint pictures of insects using only primary and secondary colors. Finally, for music, the children will learn how to clap to rhythms using insect names.

Reasons for Choosing Topic/Structure of Unit

One of my reasons for choosing insects as a topic is my personal interest in the topic. I have found insects a fascinating topic and I know that children are naturally curious about insects as well. It is also important for children to learn about insects since insects are numerous and share the world we live in.

This unit is structured so that the students will explore insects in four subject areas in a logical sequence. First the children will explore insects through literature, then after forming some hypotheses on what insects are based on their readings and real-life knowledge, the students will brainstorm as well as come up with a way to classify insects versus non-insects. After identifying insects, the children will be able to choose an insect to paint for their art activity. Finally, the students will be able to learn about rhythm and sing an insect song.

---