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The FOSS Insects module provides experiences that heighten students' awareness
of the diversity of animal forms. They come to know firsthand the life sequences of a number
of insects: darkling beetles, milkweed bugs, wax moths, silk moths, painted lady butterflies,
crickets, and ants. In each activity, an insect is introduced, and students observe
structures and behaviors, discuss their findings, and ask questions.
Students observe life cycles of insects and compare the stages of metamorphosis exhibited by each
species.
In activity 1, Mealworms, each student receives two larval mealworms to care for and observe.
A class culture is also maintained. Over 10 weeks students observe the larvae grow, molt, pupate,
and turn into beetles (adults), which mate, lay eggs, and die.
In activity 2, Waxworms, students observe waxworms progress through their life cycle. They
compare the complete metamorphosis of the wax moth to that of the mealworm beetle.
In activity 3, Milkweed Bugs, groups of students receive vials of milkweed bug eggs.
Each group prepares a habitat for the bugs, providing air, space, food, and water. They observe the
changes in structure, pattern, and behavior as the insects mature as a result of simple metamorphosis.
In activity 4, Silkworms, and activity 5, Butterflies, the class observes
silkworm and painted lady larvae grow, pupate, and emerge as adults. They experience the characteristic
stages of complete metamorphosis and compare the individual forms and behaviors exhibited by moths and butterflies.
With luck students will see mating and egg laying, completing the life cycle.
In activity 6, Other Insects, the class sets up appropriate habitats for house crickets, ants,
and aquatic insects, and observes the structures and behaviors of these insects in class cultures.
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