For budding entomologists and nature detectives, these free insect lesson plans and investigations help take the learning outside:
Field Guides
Essential for comparing illustrations with actual crawlies and flying beasties discovered, and for learning fast facts. Here are a couple you can download for free:
Orkin Guide: Has color photos and basic information on common insects, like bees, wasps, mosquitoes, flies, ants, etc. 24 pages.
Usborne Nature Cards: Bugs
Field Studies
Basic Insect Observation Worksheet
Workbook: Information and activities about mosquitoes, honeybees, and other insects.
Incredible Invertebrates: Reading comprehension worksheet and answer key.
Free Readers:
The Life of a Butterfly
Butterflies
Monarchs on the Move
A Visit to a Butterfly Greenhouse
How Do Flies Walk Upside Down?
NatGeo Explorer Magazine: Dragonfly
Videos and Interactives
- Insects and Bugs: Has a variety of interactives and games.
- Explore Bees: Smithsonian site features a collection of resources for studying bee behavior.
- What’s Bugging You? PBS LearningMedia videos about insects.
Dive into spring science with a backyard bug hunt! Discover the wonders of insects, learn about biodiversity, and spark a love for nature in your kids. Easy tips, tools, and activities to make exploring fun and educational. Let the adventure begin!
