Symmetrical
Butterfly Project
HOW IT WORKS
Symmetrical Butterfly Project involves hands-on and research activities, and takes
approximately four to six weeks depending on grade level and
ability. Students learn about the characteristics and life
cycle of the butterfly, do research on different species,
and present what they learn. They are introduced to the
subject through an interactive KWL process of documenting
what they already know about butterflies and writing
questions on Post-its that are sorted by category and turned
into a chart that remains up throughout the entire project
as a resource. Read-alouds and shared readings feature
nonfiction books that are accessible during independent
reading time. Students are also introduced to note-taking in
their research journals. Based on the categories identified
when charting questions, they take notes on life cycle,
habitat, food, survival, enemies, and environment of the
butterfly. Toward the end of the week, a live butterfly kit
is set up and monitored until the butterflies hatch. The
children make daily observations on the changes that occur.
During the next week, the children use
technology as a research tool. They are divided into groups
and taught how to search the Internet and use a Butterflies
of the World CD-ROM program. A class trip to the American
Museum of Natural History’s butterfly exhibit and a viewing
of a videotape about butterflies is done during this phase.
Children choose a specific type of butterfly and learn as
much as they can about it. They use the information for a
written report and an oral presentation.
The final week results in a class book
created by the children of their own original butterfly
designs. The children are introduced to the KidPix Deluxe
program where they draw and design their butterflies using a
process that helps them understand symmetry in design. The
entire project results in two products that can be used to
assess the children’s learning. This research model can be
used to study and report on any animal.
THE STUDENTS
This program was first implemented with a group of 20 first
graders with basic computer knowledge and experience with
the Internet and KidPix program. It can be adapted for
grades K through 2 and for smaller or larger groups and
children of all achievement levels.
THE STAFF
Veronica A. Barkley has taught second grade for the past six
years. She currently teaches in a general education
classroom at P.S. 198 in Manhattan’s District 2. Veronica
was a recipient of two District 3 Teacher Incentive Grants.
WHAT YOU NEED
You will need at least one computer with Internet access and
CD-ROM drive. You will also need access to a TV and VCR; a
live butterfly kit (from Insect Lore); and a CD-ROM,
videotape, and books about butterflies.
OVERALL VALUE
Symmetrical Butterfly Project provides opportunity for
primary grade students to become scientists researching a
fascinating topic. It promotes literacy in language arts,
science, and technology, and incorporates activities and
experiences that appeal to all learners. This program can be
adjusted by time and length to meet curriculum and
scheduling constraints. Parts can be omitted or extended and
the program can be adapted to study any species. |