Search results matching tags 'science' and 'insects'

We are not hatching WASPS & a GIVE AWAY!

Anonymous — Fri, 12 Apr 2013 12:00:00 GMT

Friends~When I taught in Ohio, I remember the schools not having air conditioning. I remember sweating all day long with 23 other kiddos and coming home exhausted! It was always 2 showers a day in the warm months. Well, we got a taste of the hotness this week in Room 331 because they did not turn the air on until Thursday. It was in the 80s all week!

Due to this, I was forced to open the windows which in turn let in several wasps. My kiddos have been obsessed with watching them, predicting about their every move, and comparing how many each class had. (I did not create ANY of these lessons:)

Finally, Thursday allowed us to get back to business and the wasps were gone. I may have killed 2 of the 4 but don't tell anyone.

Thursday morning I was so excited to bring in our Unidentified Creature Hatching Basket. I set it back in the science center. I decided I really wanted to keep them predicting about what might be hatching so I made a quick video and then created a QR Code. I wanted them to scan the code and write their prediction on an index card.

The funny part is they totally starting predicting as soon as they saw it. Butterfly was first because there was a butterfly book on my desk and then came the best prediction. WASPS! Those sillies thought we were hatching wasps! I still chuckle about it!

Here is the code that I created:

This is the really fun part! Guess with your class! Scan the code with your students and leave a comment below with your email. I will collect all of the correct predictions and place them in a drawing. My plan is to have my students draw the winner next

Friday, April 19th!

Happy Scanning!

The Creepies and Crawlies are out!

Anonymous — Sat, 09 Mar 2013 15:28:00 GMT

Friends~I know this might sound crazy but we found ants in our house today and I am thrilled! Not because I love ants but because it is finally getting warm enough for them to creep! I am from the North but being down South for 6 years has really thinned my blood. I am a total wimp! Recess duty at 40 degrees is outrageous to me when in Ohio I remember standing out there in the snow. Hallelujah for ants and bugs creeping all around NC today!

67 degrees...I have missed you!

I have to repost this picture from last summer. It is my all time favorite creepy crawly photo!
That is my little guy Ian and a snail friend that he found digging around at a park! I crack up at the snail is just checking things out!

I love to use the world of insects as a springboard for teaching. Lucky for me- we have life cycles as a science standard! So far this year we have studied the life cycle of a spider and a frog.

Next on the list is jumping into the world of creepy crawlies of all kinds!

Listen to this fun insect song that I teach my class every year!

Grab a Free download of the song by clicking the image below!

We make those adorable butterfly hats when we learn about the proboscis.

You can learn how to make these with your kiddos in my

Creepy Crawly file!

Check it out here!

Happy almost SPRING!

Picture Book (Science): Hornets, Incredible Insect Architects (Markle)

Anonymous — Mon, 14 May 2012 02:26:00 GMT

Two weeks ago, I highlighted Sandra Markle’s captivating book Luna Moths: Masters of Change. Hornets: Incredible Insect Architectsis another book in her amazing 8-part Insect World series.

Summary:

Before delving into the specifics on hornets, the book begins with a concise overview of what makes insects unique from other living things. Next, the difference between hornets and wasps is explained, making it clear that even though these terms are often used interchangeably, they are two very different species. Interestingly, there is only one type of hornet in America. Originating in Europe, they were first found in New York in 1840. They have since spread out through much of the country.

The parts of the body—inside and out—are covered extensively with diagrams and text boxes identifying each part and explaining its use. Then, the life cycle is described as it moves from egg, to larva, to pupa, and, eventually, to adult. One particularly interesting fact is that the larva “clamour” for food—often in unison! The focal point is the building and tending of the nest. The queen chooses the building site and starts the design. The most amazing part is how she combines wood fibers with her saliva and juices to make paper! In addition, she forms each small cell into a perfect hexagon, making it ready for a single egg. Hornets prey on honeybees for food. They bite off the head and abdomen to eat the protein-filled thorax. Further information is laid out about the functions and continued building within the nest, ending with the winter coming. The queen dutifully sets everything up for a next crop of queens for the following spring season. The book concludes with information about other insect architects, glossary of key scientific terms, book and website resources, and hornet activities.

Evaluation:
This series goes beyond most juvenile science books, but the information is not so dense that is becomes cumbersome. Markle's writing style is highly engaging. I found myself learning a lot and not wanting to put the book down! Stunning photographs accompany each section of information to provide an up-close look at the lives of these remarkable insects. I will continue to seek out additional books in the series as well as Markles other books. I recommend Hornets: Incredible Insect Architects for ages 7 and up. Independent reading level is about third-grade.

Picture Book (Science): Luna Moths (Sandra Markle)

Anonymous — Sun, 29 Apr 2012 20:37:00 GMT

Summary of Luna Moths: Masters of Change (by Sandra Markle):

The book begins with a basic explanation of how insects are different from other animals. Then, Markle identifies differences between moths and butterflies. A detailed exploration of the luna moth’s body, inside and out, is depicted with broad two-page labeled diagrams. Each one has additional information about it in text boxes. The largest part of the book is focused on a chronological study of the moth by looking at its life cycle. The stages are described and illustrated well. An added feature is that Markle highlights the ways that other moths—in the larva and adult stages in particular—defend themselves. The layout of Luna Moths: Masters of Change is reader friendly. The sections are clearly labeled with bold titles in bright orange headline boxes. The text is primarily on the left with a full-page, close-up photograph of moths in various stages and activities on the right. Other pages have the text on top with bold pictures below corresponding to it. The vibrant and organized layout patterns are pleasing to the eyes. The book concludes with information on other insect life cycles, a glossary of important terms, luna moth extension activities, and suggestions for book, video, and web resources.

Evaluation:

My two favorite parts of this book are the diagrams of the body—internal and external—and the information on the various ways moths defend themselves. On the external diagram, the basic parts are identified and described—head, thorax, abdomen, wings—as well as others like spiracles (breathing holes), compound eyes, body texture/scales, antenna, legs, and feet. The internal figure lays out fascinating information about reproductive organs, heart, brain, and nerve cord. I did not even realize they had all these parts in that tiny, tiny body. The sections on protection from predators are fantastic. They includes pictures of moths to fit each description, adding to its merit. For instance, some caterpillars use their looks like the hag moth caterpillar that looks like a hairy spider and the elephant hawk moth one that appears as a snake ready to attack! Others camouflage well or use poisonous secretions. I cannot help but to be in absolute wonderment at our Creator whenever I study science. There is so much variety, intricacy, and creativity. My kids get tired of me saying these words. J

I have read many children’s book on insects, butterflies, and moths, yet I learned a lot from Luna Moths: Masters of Change. It is more detailed than many similar children's science books, but the straightforward text is highly engaging. In addition, the eye-catching and brilliant photographs depict a variety of views and stages. This book is part of the Insect World series from Lerner Publishing Group. Because I am so impressed with this one, I plan on looking up additional titles in the series. I recommend this book for ages 8 and up.

This post is linked up with Science Sunday at Adventures of Mommydom.

Picture Book (Math & Science): Multiple on the Fly (by Suzanne Slade)

Anonymous — Mon, 27 Feb 2012 13:40:00 GMT

Summary of Math on the Fly (by Suzanne Slade):

Multiply on the Fly demonstrates that math is a relevant part of our every day experience. Readers are treated to an insect safari, viewing commonly known bugs like grasshoppers, butterflies, and ladybugs as well as lesser known insects like pirate bugs and spittlebugs. Each two-page spread illustrates a multiplication riddle, such as:

Four lovely Luna moths

Rest upon a pine.

Each one spans three inches.

How long is the luna line?

Underneath the riddles is a multiplication problem. For the aforementioned rhyme it is 4 x 3 = ? Young listeners are prompted then to solve the problem. There are three ways to approach, depending on the developmental level of the child(ren). First, count out the items being multiplied and connect it to the multiplication problem. Second, count by one of the numbers represented in the problem, like 3’s or 4’s. The final stage is for the child to be able to look at the page and know right away the answer.

Evaluation:

Author Suzanne Slade has fashioned a wonderful combination of math and science, fostering an appreciation for the little things of nature. She use rich adjectives and verbs to describe the physical features and daily activities of insects. Her high spirited rhymes, which effectively use rhyme and alliteration, are engaging and enjoyable. Erin E. Hunter (illustrator) has beautifully captured the insects in their habitats. Her brilliant illustrations draw young readers in to the world of insects.

Teaching Opportunities:

One of the things I appreciate most about Sylvan Dell publishers is their mission to make math and science exciting and applicable. To further that mission, they create a FREE teaching guide for all their titles that include activities and ideas for extending the book. For Multiple on the Fly, you will want to check out their 41-page color guide by clicking HERE. You are sure to find many activities your child(ren) or classroom will enjoy!

This post is linked with Non-Fiction Monday weekly round up, hosted this week at The Children's War blog.

Picture Book: Not a Buzz to Be Found: Insects in Winter (by Linda Glaswer):

Anonymous — Mon, 27 Feb 2012 01:13:00 GMT

The secret winter lives of insects are exposed in Not a Buzz to Be Found: Insects in Winter. Author Linda Glaswer writes in a gentle poetic language that reveals the mysteries surrounding the whereabouts of insects like woolly bear caterpillars, honeybees, ants, black swallowtail butterflies, ladybugs, and others. The concise, straightforward text is ideal for young readers. It provides essential information while engaging them in the language. Here is an excerpt:

If you were a gall fly in winter,

You’d still be a baby living in a gall.

You’d chew a little opening to get out in spring.

But all winter you’d stay in that small round ball.

The illustrations (by Jaime Zollars) wonderfully parallel the text while also depicting the seasonal activities of children, connecting the lives of people with those of insects/nature. As the children play amongst the fall foliage, wooly bear caterpillars are close by curled up sleeping under a blanket of leaves or as a boy and girl have a snowball fight, the field cricket are safely under the Earth—waiting for spring. The pictures capture well the colors and textures of the seasons.

The book ends with the arrival of spring and reemergence of the insects:

Then slowly, slowly the air grows warmer.

And just as slowly the days grow longer.

You feel a change in the air

and so do insects everywhere.

Some wake up. Some hatch.

Some fly north. Some grow wings.

It’s time to zip and buzz and fly.

Winter is over. At last, it’s spring.

I recommend Not a Buzz to Be Found: Insects in Winter for readers ages 4-10.

Teaching Opportunities:

Unit Study: Include as part of a unit study on insects or seasons
Comparison/Contrast: Compare and contrast one to one (ants to ladybugs) or groups; ask questions such as: Which ones hibernate underground? Which ones emerge as babies? Which as adult? Which ones sleep under leaves or parts of trees? Which ones migrate?
Writing: Write a journal entry from the perspective of one of the insects or one of the children discovering some hibernating
Research & Writing: Research an insect not included to learn how it survives the winter; then write a poetic stanza like the ones in the book (try to have at least two lines rhyme)
Language: Identify rhymes—true and slant—and onomatopoeia

This post is linked up with Science Sunday at Adventures in Mommydom. Click HERE for more great posts on science activities.

Non-Fiction Monday: Up Close and Gross Microscopic Creatures

Anonymous — Mon, 01 Aug 2011 21:42:00 GMT

Bearport Publishers has introduced a remarkable and intriguing new series called Up Close and Gross: Microscopic Creatures by author Ruth Owen. Four books make up this exciting collection: Creepy Backyard Invaders, Gross Body Invaders, Icky House Invaders, and Disgusting Food Invaders. I have previewed one of the books in the series—Disgusting Food Invaders. The book is full of amazing close-up photographs of creatures captured in graphic detail, both visible and invisible to the naked eye. For instance, children can see a fruit fly 55 times its actual size, so the hairs that cover its body and the amazing eyes can be examined. Food invaders like bacteria and mold are shown as well as lesser known intruders like thrips and cheese mites. The stunning pictures consistently set Bearport’s non-fictions series apart, but they also have educational and fascinating facts about these creatures. Readers will learn how some of these invaders are harmful while others are seen as beneficial. The informative text has the student audience in mind. Engaging and concise, it is written on a third grade reading level, making is accessible to children of all ages to read independently or to listen enthusiastically.

I highly recommend the Up Close and Gross series for parents and educators to add to their personal libraries. On the practical side, readers will walk away with a further awareness of the importance of washing their hands and protecting their food. In addition, their insight and knowledge of invisible worlds within their own will be widened. The books are a great addition to a science curriculum or as enrichment.

Check out other enriching books at NonFiction Monday hosted this week at Lori Calabrese blog.

Picture Books (Science): Ladybugs

Anonymous — Mon, 09 May 2011 02:57:00 GMT

In progress...

Reading books is essential and amazing, but watching nature unfold first-hand is priceless! One of my favorite experiences with my children is using the live bug kits. Whether you home school or not, I urge you to try one or more of these out with your family. It is a great summer activity. We have used the ladybug and the butterfly kits. My favorite is the ladybug one because there were more significant changes to observe (and record, if you wish). Also, most children are not as familiar with the ladybug’s life cycle as they are with the butterfly’s. If you are only going to do one, go for the ladybug kit.

There are numerous non-fiction books on the ladybugs. There are four though that stand out as exceptional.

Ladybugs (ages 3-6) by Monica Hughes

Ladybugs is a beautiful introduction to this beloved beetle. The straightforward text reveals basic facts about the insect’s habitat, body parts, life cycle, and eating habits. One of the highlights is the step by step easy description and photographs of the ladybug's transformation from egg to adult. The vibrant photographs wonderfully depict the insects in motion—flying, laying eggs, hatching, eating aphids, and fighting off predators. Ladybugs is ideal for preschool listeners or early readers.

Watch It Grow: Ladybug (ages 6-10) by Barrie Watts

For children ready for more in-depth information, Barry Watts’ Ladybug book is perfect. It jumps right into the life cycle revealing the facts in a natural, narrative style that is engaging. As the life cycle unfolds (beginning with eggs on a leaf), a detailed descripton of the ladybug's feeding habits, physical changes, and daily life is provided. The book ends with adult ladybugs mating and perpetuating the process. The vivid photographs show each stage and activity up-close and in detail. The Watch It Grow series is an exceptional resource for many science topics.

Face to Face with The Ladybug (ages 7 and up) by Valerie Tracqui
Using the seasonal framework, it begins in spring and ends in winter to describe the life and habits of a ladybug. The pages are teeming with bright photographs which makes this the best pick for the visual learner! Each incredible photograph includes a description or additional factual details. Short paragraphs describe various attributes and aspects, such as idendification, flight, war with ants, birth, dinnertime, miracle of metamophosis, and much more. Readers come face to face with every aspect of a ladybug's life in this amazing picture book.

Bright Beetle (ages 6 and up) by Rick Chrustowski

Picture Books (Science) Bees

Anonymous — Mon, 25 Apr 2011 04:31:00 GMT

Writing Non-Fiction for Children is hosting Non-Fiction Monday this week. Click HERE to check out the other great posts. If you would like to win a new stunning non-fiction book for your personal library, check out the Sylvan Dell 2011 Spring New Release Giveaway.

Bees are fascinating creatures. It amazes me how they work together in their flourishing colony in perfect harmony—each bee with its own role, from caregiver to honey hunter. When I study a topic like bees, it affirms for me the existence of an intelligent and imaginative creator. It makes me more in awe of Him.

In school, science felt boring and seemed abstract. Picture books, though, foster an interest and provide concrete models foundational for later scientific study. Even if you have “older” children, check out some picture books to go along with a school or home study. You might just find a new level of enthusiasm!

The Honey Bee’s Hive: A Thriving City (ages 8 and up) by Joyce Markovics

I have enjoyed several books in the Spectacular Animal Towns series by Bearport publishing. Like the others, The Honey Bee’s Hive reveals the mysteries of the bees with amazing, vibrant photographs and captivating text. The essential role of the honey bee is set up with an anecdote and pictures of bees being brought in to pollinate almond trees in California to help ensure an abundant crop. Moving into the general information, readers learn about their habitat, home, and communication as well as the process of changing nectar into honey. One of the most intriguing sections is the life cycle of these insects. Photographs of the bees from egg to developing pupae accompany the well-written text. Rounding out the book, a brief look into the dangers that threaten bees. The Honey Bee’s Hive: A Thriving City is my top pick for resources on the topic.

Watch It Grow: Bee (ages 5 and up) Barrie Watts

With eye-catching original photographs and straightforward text, Watch It Grow Bee focuses primarily on the life-cycle of the insect. Readers watch as the bees grow from egg to adult. Several key areas of the adult bee’s life are shown, such as looking for food, pollinating flowers, storing the food, and sustaining the colony. The large font and straightforward text is perfect for early readers who are becoming comfortable reading multiple sentences on a page.

World of Insects: Honey Bees (ages 3-7) by Colleen Sexton

World of Insects: Honey Bees offers a basic look at the insect. The first section focuses on the parts of the bee while the second illustrates bees collecting nectar and pollinating flowers. The process of changing nectar to honey is mentioned but not described in detail. Each page has a large, dazzling photograph to accompany 1-2 sentences of text. This Blast Off! Reader can be used as an introduction for preschoolers and/or an early reader for older children.

Honorable Mention

Bees and Their Hives (ages 3-7) by Linda Tagliaferro

Each two-page spread has 1-2 simple sentences and one large photograph. A snapshot glimpse into building a hive and the workings of it is depicted. Like World of Insects: Honey Bees, Bees and Their Hives can be used as an introduction for preschoolers or as an early reader.

Jungle Trip to Costa Rica: Una Parte

Anonymous — Wed, 20 Apr 2011 13:31:45 GMT

Invertebrates

They may be the smallest of the animals you may see in the tropical rain forest, but the variety and beauty of invertebrates is staggering.

When I say insect, do you think of ugly creeping monsters attempting to crawl into your clothes? Do you say, “Gross!” The first insect I captured on film was this creature.

Before this gorgeous creature gained his spots, what did he look like?

That’s right, a caterpillar!

Not all butterflies have brilliant scales. What was that? You thought only reptiles and fish had scales? The “skin” on a butterfly wing is made up of what entomologists call, scales too. This one took the camouflage route. (Although I think he is going to have a hard time blending in with that flower.

Butterflies are not the only creature that loves the sweet nectar of flowers. Check out the bee flying in for a landing on this lovely flower.

The tropical rain forest is crawling with interesting invertebrates. I began to see them wherever I looked.

On a leaf.

On the water.

On my camera bag. (That tiny white fuzzball on the right the picture had six legs!)

In the sink.

This scorpion, an arachnid not an insect, was only the size of a quarter. The grey ring to the right is the drain to the sink.

In my hand.

Across my path.

Leaf cutter ants are busy at work. They use the leaves to grow an edible fungus that the ants eat. Farmer ants, how cool!

These tasty tiny termites build huge nests in trees. If you are ever stuck in the jungle without a sandwich, pop a few thousand of these in your mouth for a healthy snack.

Speaking of eating bugs, anyone hungry for a giant roach the size of your hand?

This beautiful tree gem scared the daylights out of me. I nearly walked straight into her neon yellow sticky web.

A Golden Orb Weaver Spider with a tiny red male spider above her.

I wonder what these guys are talking about.

A beauitful bunch of ripe banana!
(daylight come and me wanna go home)
hide the deadly black tarantula!

Well, Mr. Belafonte I certainly did not want to go home yet. Especially after finding THIS fantastic black tarantula. She was nearly as large as my hand!

Stay tuned here for my further adventures in Costa Rica in the weeks to come!

Pura Vida

~RattlerJen